The 19th season, airing from 2021, marked a turning point in the history of “NCIS“: For nearly two decades, Mark Harmon was the face of the cult series as Leroy Jethro Gibbs, but after only four episodes, he finally left in season 19 – handing the reins to Gary Cole, who, as former FBI agent Alden Parker, is responsible for the NCIS Major Case Response Teams took over. Harmon only stayed on board behind the scenes: as an executive producer.
But Harmon’s original plan was to leave the hit CBS series a season early. Leading up to Season 18, Harmon told the crew and the network that he was saying goodbye to what is arguably his most popular role. But at the time, it wasn’t clear to the 72-year-old what the consequences of his serial breakup might actually be – not just for himself, but for everyone else involved and ultimately for the future of ‘NCIS’…
This is how Mark Harmon saved “NCIS” from the final ending
Harmon learned that CBS was seriously considering dropping the show entirely upon his departure, as it would not have had the time to come up with an entirely new concept for a new lead actor. Of course, that would have meant dozens of employees, both technical and artistic, would lose their jobs at very short notice – all because Harmon didn’t want to play Gibbs anymore.
The actor did not want to take on this responsibility, so he negotiated with the broadcaster not only to play his main role in season 18, but also to be there in season 19. There could be at least four episodes where the passing of the baton was enough. prepared.
Opposite the American industry magazine Kelly Kahl, former head of entertainment at CBS, called season 19 of NCIS a “year of transition.” The audience was friendly introduced to the new main character, while Harmon remained in the credits for now.
The first season, which largely did without Harmon, was also a success, and with that the future of the series is secured for the time being. Currently, fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the announced (and repeatedly delayed) 21st season.