Mark Harmon, the former director on NCIS, recently revealed the heartwarming story behind his enduring 37-year marriage with Pam Dawber. The 72-year-old actor shared that their love story began with a spontaneous decision: he made a bold cold call to Dawber, known for her role in Mork & Mindy, after opting out of a planned group date.
Harmon recounted how this unexpected call sparked an instant connection, leading to a spontaneous date that same night and ultimately culminating in their wedding exactly one year later. This charming anecdote was shared by Harmon as he promoted his upcoming book, Ghosts of Honolulu, slated for release on November 14.
Their romance blossomed not long after Harmon was named PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive in 1986, during which he expressed his belief in enduring marriages over fleeting romances. Over the course of their 37-year journey together, Harmon and Dawber have built their relationship on shared values such as a strong work ethic, laughter, and effective communication. The couple, now proud parents to two sons in their thirties, Sean and Ty, both of whom are involved in the entertainment industry, emphasize the importance of these values in sustaining their marriage.
Harmon’s decision to take on the role of Special Agent Gibbs on NCIS was influenced by his desire to maintain an active presence in his sons’ lives despite the demands of his work schedule. Although he has stepped away from the popular CBS series, Harmon, now 72, clarifies that it is not a retirement but rather a transition to writing. His debut historical nonfiction book, Ghosts of Honolulu: A Japanese Spy, a Japanese American Spy Hunter, and the Untold Story of Pearl Harbor, marks his shift from acting to authorship after an impressive 19-season run as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs.