Why Mark Harmon Won't Appear In The NCIS Gibbs Prequel Series (For Now)

With that quote in mind, fans probably shouldn’t expect Mark Harmon to appear in person on “NCIS: Origins” when it debuts in late 2024 or early 2025. It might be best to allow the show to establish its own identity before relying on a role for the actor (outside of any narration he provides). At this time, it also sounds like a possible return to “NCIS” may be a long shot. It’s a complicated situation for Harmon to return to “NCIS” for Season 21 or at any point in the future, as the actor’s kept busy with other projects. However, Amy Reisenbach insists to Deadline that “The door for Mark is always open” should he desire a comeback.

Although Harmon may not act in front of the camera for the NCIS franchise anytime soon, he’s been heavily involved in the development of “NCIS: Origins.” David Stapf explained the genesis of the new prequel series: “Mark and [his son] Sean Harmon had this idea with [writers] David North and Gina Monreal, and they brought it to us. I was like, oh my gosh, this idea is great.” Interestingly enough, Sean Harmon portrayed a younger Gibbs in flashbacks on “NCIS,” so if any duo understands this character, it would be the two Harmons.

Whether or not NCIS fans physically see Harmon on a show again, he still has an important role within the franchise. In addition to ushering in “NCIS: Origins,” he continues to be an executive producer on “NCIS,” so the property has his fingerprints all over it.