Mark Harmon: The Retired NCIS Star Who Just Can’t Let Go
Although Mark Harmon officially retired from NCIS in 2021, the 73-year-old actor isn’t quite ready to leave his iconic role as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs behind. According to an exclusive source close to the show, Harmon’s continued involvement behind the scenes has been ruffling a few feathers on set, as he remains deeply invested in the series and its spinoffs.
Harmon bid farewell to his on-screen role after an impressive 19 seasons, but he’s far from done with NCIS. As an executive producer, he’s still influencing everything from casting choices to plot developments. “For someone who said he was retiring, Mark’s still very immersed in the franchise and must have a say in everything,” reveals an insider. “He can’t help himself!”
Harmon’s insights are a double-edged sword for the cast and crew. While some welcome his wisdom, others are reportedly finding his input a bit intrusive. His involvement is especially pronounced in the new spinoff NCIS: Origins, where he handpicked Austin Stowell, 39, to play a younger version of Gibbs.
Stowell recalls receiving a call from Harmon with the good news while skiing. He raced down the mountain to find reliable reception. “Mark was very complimentary,” Stowell says. “He told me, ‘It’s been you from the second you walked in the room.’” Harmon even suggested Stowell wear blue contacts to replicate Gibbs’ intense stare, a subtle but telling detail that shows just how invested Harmon still is.
Despite stepping back from his role on-screen, it’s clear that Mark Harmon’s presence remains an essential part of the NCIS legacy. Whether his hands-on approach is helpful or a bit much, Harmon’s commitment to the show he helped shape is unmistakable.
