Gibbs Returns! Mark Harmon’s Epic Comeback in NCIS Prequel Series Revealed!

In the upcoming NCIS spin-off, “NCIS: Origins,” Mark Harmon is set to reprise his iconic role as Leroy Jethro Gibbs. The prequel series, set in 1991, will explore Gibbs’ early career at the NCIS Camp Pendleton headquarters and his relationship with mentor Mike Franks. Mark Harmon will return as the narrator, following a similar format to “Young Sheldon,” while his son, Sean Harmon, transitions to an executive producer role.

Despite Mark Harmon’s return, the series will cast a new actor to portray the young Gibbs. Sean Harmon, who previously played a younger version of Gibbs on NCIS, expressed his excitement about telling the narrative of Gibbs’ early years. NCIS: Origins is scheduled to launch in the 2024-25 broadcast season, promising to unveil a new side of the beloved character.

Showrunners Gina Lucita Monreal and David J. North are enthusiastic about exploring the making of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, assuring fans that even devoted NCIS followers will discover unknown aspects of the character’s story. CBS Entertainment president Amy Reisenbach emphasized that the series will delve into Gibbs’ rich heritage while reintroducing familiar characters and introducing new ones.

Mark Harmon’s return to the NCIS universe is a relief for fans, as he had previously announced his departure from the naval drama in 2021 while remaining as a producer. In a documentary on the show’s season 19 DVD release, Mark Harmon explained that the desire for fresh and challenging material was no longer the driving force for his return to the drama every season. Despite leaving the show, he hinted that his beloved character is not retired, staying true to the character’s chosen path.