NCIS: This decision by Mark Harmon (Gibbs) saved several dozen jobs in the series

Season 19 of NCIS had a before and after in the history of CBS’ long-running procedural series: It signaled the final departure of showrunner Mark Harmon, who played the famous Leroy Jethro Gibbs from the very first episode. in 2003. For nearly 20 years, Gibbs was the central axis of the series until his interpreter felt it was time to say goodbye to the character and continue only as an executive producer.

However, the actor already wanted to leave before that. According to TVLine (via SensaCine ), she was already ready to say goodbye to Gibbs in the previous season, and it was made known to both the producers and the network. However, when he discovered that CBS was seriously considering not renewing the series, he decided to continue without losing his jobs to other actors, technical and artistic teams.

limited appearance

so, Mark Harmon He negotiated his return, but only for a limited number of episodes, the four episodes he saved NCIS cancellation (and therefore dozens of jobs) and which made it possible to reconfigure the series without its main star. As CBS Entertainment president Kelly Cull told TVLine in May 2022, season 19 was a “transition” year for the show and thus was axed. Mark Harmon From the opening credits was “something they might consider in the future”.

After season 19, mostly without Gibbs, NCIS managed to stay on the air and was renewed for a 20th season without its main character. The 21st season is under preparation.

“Everyone knows the door is open if they want to appear in one or more episodesCal said of the actor’s potential return. As for what drew him to the series 20 years ago? “What has always fascinated me is the character I play and keeping it fresh and challenging. As far as the story goes, this character has gone that route. I think it was fair and just.“

NCIS: Special Investigations is currently available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.