Why did Agent Gibbs actor Mark Harmon leave NCIS?
VIEWERS were left in shock when Mark Harmon left the lead role in NCIS.
After 18 years, his character will no longer be on the long-running CBS drama.
Why did Mark Harmon leave NCIS?
Mark has left the show after 18 years of playing Gibbs, dating back to the character’s first introduction in 2003.
On October 11, 2021, Agent Gibbs had a showdown with his adversary Paul Lemere, played by Jason Wiles, before solving the case and sailing off into the sunset.
The character admitted he hadn't felt such peace since the loss of his family.
So instead of accepting back his badge, he sailed away on his boat - yes one he'd been building in his basement - without looking back
Rumours around his exit began as early as June 2021.
He had wanted to leave at the end of season 18 but then continued into 19 after it was revealed if he didn't return the show may have been axed.
LATEST NCIS NEWS
According to the Hollywood Reporter, Harmon signed a deal to continue with NCIS for its 19th season, but that was only to return in a limited capacity.
While it has been confirmed that Mark is leaving the show, his character has not left the world of NCIS forever.
According to showrunnner, Steve Binder, Harmon will return in a guest capacity in the future seasons of the programme as he remains a fundamental feature to the success of the show.
Binder explains: "As an executive producer and dear friend, Mark continues to be an integral part of the fabric of the show.
"Our north star has always been staying true to our characters, and that truth has always guided the stories we tell and where those characters go.
"So regarding the future of Gibbs, as long-time fans of the show may have noticed over the years…never count Leroy Jethro Gibbs out."
There has been no official statement released by the actor regarding his character's future, but Harmon still continues as the executive producer for the series.
Who has replaced Mark Harmon?
Many fans believed that Gibbs was going to be replaced by Gary Cole, who joined the cast of NCIS for season 19 as a series regular.
However, Gary plays FBI Special Agent Alden Park, and it was announced that he would never be a replacement for Harmon, but be a support to the team with their investigation.
Therefore, as it stands, there is no confirmation on whether Gibbs will ever be replaced by a new or current cast member.
Watch NCIS on Mondays at 9pm EST on CBS