Mark Harmon Reportedly in Talks for Special NCIS Appearance as Franchise Celebrates Major Anniversary
Hollywood, CA — New reports suggest that Mark Harmon, the veteran actor who played the legendary Leroy Jethro Gibbs for 19 seasons on NCIS, may be preparing for a long-awaited return to the franchise. As NCIS approaches a major milestone anniversary, insiders say CBS has been in active discussions with Harmon about a special appearance that would honor the show’s history and long-lasting cultural impact.
Discussions Behind Closed Doors
According to industry sources familiar with the negotiations, CBS executives have been eager to bring Harmon back in a meaningful way. While Harmon stepped away from the series in 2021, his involvement behind the scenes as an executive producer has continued—keeping him closely tied to the show’s direction and future.
One source stated, “The network wants a tribute that feels big. You can’t celebrate NCIS without Gibbs. Mark Harmon is essential to that legacy.”
The talks reportedly include options for:
A one-episode guest appearance
A multi-episode arc revisiting Gibbs’ life in Alaska
Or a feature-length special episode celebrating the franchise’s 25-year impact
Cast and Crew React With Excitement
Several longtime NCIS cast members have hinted in interviews that they would welcome Harmon back with open arms. Sean Murray (Timothy McGee) recently commented, “Mark is family. If he returns—even for a moment—it would feel like coming home.”
Producers have also hinted that Harmon’s calm leadership and iconic presence left a permanent mark on the set. Even after his departure, the crew often refers to the show’s guiding principles as “Gibbs’ rules.”
A Perfect Moment for Gibbs’ Return
The NCIS franchise is bigger than ever, with multiple spin-offs airing worldwide. As the original series prepares to honor its landmark anniversary, fans have been vocal about wanting some form of closure—or continuation—for Gibbs’ storyline.
When Gibbs last appeared, he chose to remain in Alaska for a peaceful, quiet life after decades of service. Many viewers believe that his final scene left the door “wide open” for a future comeback.
Story options being considered reportedly include:
Gibbs returning to Washington for a personal mission
A new threat that specifically requires his expertise
A retrospective episode where past cases resurface
Or a tribute storyline acknowledging his impact on the team
Fan Hype Reaches New Levels
As rumors spread, fan communities on social media lit up instantly. Notably, the hashtag #BringBackGibbs began trending again, with thousands expressing their hope for a major return.
One fan wrote, “The franchise is great, but an anniversary without Gibbs would feel incomplete.”
Another said, “Mark Harmon doesn’t just play Gibbs—he IS NCIS. Bring him home.”
CBS Remains Quiet—for Now
When contacted, a CBS spokesperson declined to confirm or deny the reports, stating only that “exciting announcements” are planned for the upcoming celebration season.
Industry analysts believe the network will hold any official statement until closer to their annual press event, where major reveals traditionally occur.
