Why Did Mark Harmon Leave NCIS?

For nearly two decades, Mark Harmon defined NCIS with his iconic portrayal of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, the no-nonsense but deeply caring leader of the investigative team. Gibbs wasn’t just another TV character—he was the heartbeat of the series, guiding his team through professional and personal battles alike. His sudden departure in 2021, during Season 19, left fans shocked and emotional. But why did Harmon leave the show, and what does the future hold for Gibbs in the NCIS universe?

Mark Harmon’s Final Case as Gibbs

NCIS Season 19 began with a gripping four-episode arc that would ultimately serve as Gibbs’ farewell. Gibbs was investigating serial killer Paul LeMere, only to discover a larger conspiracy tied to the shady Sonova Industries.

Going rogue and hunted by his own colleagues, Gibbs only trusted his longtime partner Timothy McGee. The case wrapped up in Episode 4, “Great Wide Open”, with Gibbs arresting LeMere and taking down Sonova’s CEO, Sonia Eberhart. Yet, instead of returning to Washington D.C., Gibbs chose peace and stayed behind in Naktok Bay, where he finally found solace.

The farewell scene with McGee was especially emotional—Gibbs admitted he felt at peace for the first time since losing his family, and he bid his team goodbye. For viewers, it was a bittersweet but fitting send-off.

Why Did Mark Harmon Leave NCIS?

Simply put, Mark Harmon felt it was time to move on. After nearly 20 years of embodying Gibbs, Harmon admitted during the Season 19 DVD commentary that he had nothing new left to bring to the character.

Fans had already noticed Gibbs stepping back in earlier seasons. Instead of leading investigations, he often allowed his team to take charge while his storylines focused more on personal arcs. For example, in Seasons 17 and 18, Gibbs formed a bond with his young neighbor Phineas, only to later discover that Phineas’ mother was a sleeper terrorist.

Harmon was also ready to pursue other creative opportunities and step into a lighter workload. While still serving as an executive producer, he decided to officially retire Gibbs’ on-screen presence. Age was another factor—given the action-heavy nature of NCIS, Harmon’s character naturally transitioned from fieldwork to more personal, emotional storytelling before bowing out.

Could Gibbs Return to NCIS Someday?

Although Gibbs hasn’t returned since his Season 19 exit, fans still hold out hope. His absence was especially felt during Season 21, when Anthony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) returned for Ducky’s tribute episode. Many viewers expected Gibbs to appear, given his close relationship with Ducky, but his absence made the moment bittersweet.

Producers have suggested that if Gibbs does return, it should be a “special event.” That means while nothing is planned yet, the door isn’t completely closed.

Mark Harmon’s Career After NCIS

Harmon hasn’t disappeared from the entertainment world. He will soon return to the big screen in Freakier Friday, the sequel to the beloved Freaky Friday. Starring alongside Lindsay Lohan, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Chad Michael Murray, the film releases on August 8, 2025—marking Harmon’s first movie role since 2011.

Meanwhile, NCIS fans can still enjoy Gibbs’ backstory in the spinoff series NCIS: Origins, which takes place in 1991 during Gibbs’ training days. While a younger actor portrays Gibbs, Harmon narrates the series and produces it with his son, Sean Harmon.

What’s Next for Gibbs in the NCIS Universe?

The NCIS franchise continues to expand with upcoming shows like NCIS: Tony & Ziva, which will follow the adventures of fan-favorite agents abroad. Given Gibbs’ strong ties to both characters, fans speculate he could make a cameo at some point. Even a brief reunion would thrill longtime viewers who still miss seeing Gibbs on their screens.

For now, Gibbs is enjoying peace in Alaska, and Mark Harmon is exploring new projects. But one thing is certain: Gibbs’ legacy will always loom large over NCIS—a reminder of the man who built the foundation of one of TV’s most successful franchises.

✅ In summary: Mark Harmon left NCIS because he felt it was time to close Gibbs’ story after nearly two decades. His exit was handled with dignity, giving Gibbs a rare sense of peace. While there’s no official word of a return, the NCIS universe always leaves room for surprises.