Mark Harmon’s physical appearance in NCIS Origins is crucial for establishing the show’s premise and attracting viewers. CBS is exploring creative ways to stage Harmon’s cameo, potentially through his character writing a book about his time with the agency. This approach not only acknowledges Harmon’s pivotal role but also integrates his presence into the narrative without requiring him to appear in every episode.
NCIS Origins, set to premiere as part of CBS’s 2024-2025 TV schedule, introduces Austin Stowell as the new young Gibbs. The prequel delves into Gibbs’ early years with the organization, tracing his journey to becoming the leader of the Major Case Response Team (MCRT), a role he first assumed in the JAG backdoor pilot and continued for nearly two decades on the main show.
The project, conceived by Harmon and his son, who are also executive producers, marks Harmon’s return to the franchise after stepping back from his role in the flagship series. Harmon will not only work behind the scenes but also narrate the events of NCIS Origins, akin to Jim Parsons’ role in Young Sheldon, a successful storytelling device for CBS.
Harmon’s physical appearance is seen as integral to NCIS Origins’ success. It serves to bridge the legacy of Gibbs with Stowell’s portrayal, emphasizing continuity and drawing on Harmon’s enduring association with the character and the NCIS universe. This cameo will not only inform audiences about the essence of NCIS Origins but also leverage Harmon’s star power to attract viewers intrigued by the series’ origins and its link to the long-running NCIS franchise.
