What Happened to Gibbs on NCIS? Why Did Gibbs Leave NCIS?
by Sona
Updated Jul 10, 2023
Who is Gibbs?
Leroy Jethro Gibbs is a fictional character and the original protagonist of the popular CBS TV series NCIS, brilliantly portrayed by Mark Harmon. In the show, Gibbs is a highly skilled former U.S. Marine Corps Scout Sniper who now leads a team of special agents for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Known for his exceptional marksmanship and ability to handle tense situations, Gibbs relies on his team for technical expertise and investigative support.
Gibbs is characterized by his unwavering dedication to justice and his no-nonsense approach to solving cases. While he is patient and caring towards his team, he has little tolerance for bureaucracy and red tape. Throughout the series, Gibbs has worked closely with a diverse group of agents, each bringing their own unique skills and personalities to the team.
In recent episodes, Gibbs has experienced personal growth and has sought solace in Alaska following the tragic loss of his family. This leads him to make the decision to leave NCIS in the episode titled "Great Wide Open" in pursuit of new adventures. Leroy Jethro Gibbs stands as an iconic and beloved character in the world of television, captivating audiences with his strong leadership, unwavering determination, and relentless pursuit of justice.
What Happened to Gibbs on NCIS?
In a momentous development on the long-running CBS TV series NCIS, Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed by the talented actor Mark Harmon, made the decision to depart from the show. This significant turn of events occurred in the episode titled "Great Wide Open," which served as a pivotal moment for Gibbs and the overall storyline of the series.
Gibbs's departure came after he experienced a rare sense of peace during his time in Alaska. This newfound tranquility, which he had not felt since the devastating loss of his family, compelled him to make the difficult choice of leaving NCIS behind. It was a deeply personal decision rooted in his quest for inner peace and a desire to explore new horizons.
The departure of such a central and beloved character like Gibbs inevitably raises questions about the future direction of the show. Fans are left wondering how NCIS will continue without the steady presence of Leroy Jethro Gibbs. The dynamics within the team will undoubtedly shift, and new challenges and opportunities will arise for the remaining characters.
As the series moves forward, the absence of Gibbs will be keenly felt. His departure leaves a void that the show will need to address and adapt to. The writers and producers of NCIS face the task of maintaining the show's essence while navigating the new landscape without Gibbs at the forefront.
However, it is important to note that Gibbs's departure does not signify the end of his story or his potential involvement in future episodes. Showrunners and cast members have hinted at the possibility of Gibbs making a return in some capacity. This leaves the door open for future appearances and ensures that Gibbs's legacy will continue to have an impact on the NCIS universe.
While the departure of Agent Gibbs brings about changes and uncertainties, it also presents an opportunity for the show to explore new narratives and delve deeper into the lives of the remaining characters. The evolving dynamics within the team and the challenges they face without Gibbs's guidance will undoubtedly shape the future of NCIS and provide fresh storylines for viewers to engage with.
Why Did Gibbs Leave NCIS?
Mark Harmon's departure from NCIS as Agent Gibbs was motivated by his quest for freshness and new challenges in his career. As both an actor and an executive producer of the show, Harmon played a crucial role in shaping the journey of Gibbs and maintaining the authenticity of the character.
After dedicating 18 seasons to portraying Gibbs, Harmon recognized the need to explore different material and seek out diverse creative opportunities beyond the confines of NCIS.
By leaving the show, he opened doors for himself to embark on new ventures while simultaneously allowing the character's legacy to endure. Harmon's decision to depart from NCIS signifies his commitment to personal growth and the pursuit of artistic endeavors beyond the long-standing role of Agent Gibbs.
Who Plays Gibbs on NCIS?
Thomas Mark Harmon is the talented American actor who portrays the iconic character of Leroy Jethro Gibbs on the popular TV series NCIS. Known for his exceptional acting skills and versatility, Harmon has played a wide range of roles since the early 1970s, showcasing his talent and leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
While he spent much of the 1990s as a character actor, Harmon's breakthrough came when he took on the role of Secret Service special agent Simon Donovan in a four-episode story arc on The West Wing in 2002. His exceptional performance in this role earned him critical acclaim and even an Emmy Award nomination, solidifying his status as a highly respected actor in the industry.
Harmon's journey as the beloved character Leroy Jethro Gibbs began with a guest starring role in two episodes of the legal drama JAG. This guest appearance paved the way for the introduction of Gibbs as a special agent in the spinoff series NCIS. From 2003 to 2021, Harmon captivated audiences with his portrayal of Gibbs, becoming synonymous with the character and leaving an indelible mark on the show.
Through his remarkable talent and dedication, Thomas Mark Harmon has brought Leroy Jethro Gibbs to life, making the character a beloved and enduring presence in the NCIS universe. His portrayal has earned him a special place in the hearts of fans, further cementing his status as an esteemed actor in the industry.
Will Mark Harmon Return to NCIS?
As of now, it is uncertain whether Mark Harmon will return to NCIS as Agent Gibbs. Although Harmon has left the series, there have been hints from showrunners and cast members about the possibility of his character making future appearances.
Harmon's ongoing role as an executive producer and the open-ended nature of Gibbs's departure leave room for potential reunions with the beloved character. While fans eagerly await news of Harmon's potential return, they can hold onto the hope that Gibbs may once again bring his iconic presence to the screen and rejoin the NCIS team in the future.
NCIS
NCIS is a popular American military police procedural TV series and the first installment of the NCIS media franchise. It follows a team of special agents from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, combining elements of military drama, police procedural, and comedy genres. The show originated as a spin-off from the series JAG, and it premiered on CBS in 2003.
Over the years, NCIS has become one of the longest-running scripted primetime TV series in the United States, currently airing its 20th season. It has also spawned two successful spin-off series: NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans.
The show's popularity grew steadily, with the third season marking a breakthrough and consistently ranking in the top 20. In 2011, it was voted America's favorite TV show in an online poll. NCIS has maintained a strong viewership, remaining a top-five hit since its sixth season. The series was renewed for a 21st season in February 2023.
What Happened to Gibbs on NCIS? FAQs
Leroy Jethro Gibbs is a fictional character and the original protagonist of the popular CBS TV series NCIS, brilliantly portrayed by Mark Harmon.
In a pivotal episode titled "Great Wide Open," Gibbs decides to leave NCIS after finding a sense of peace in Alaska, a rare occurrence since the tragic death of his family.
Mark Harmon's decision to leave NCIS as Agent Gibbs was driven by his desire for freshness and new challenges in his career.
Thomas Mark Harmon is the talented American actor who portrays the iconic character of Leroy Jethro Gibbs on the popular TV series NCIS.
Mark Harmon portrayed Agent Gibbs on NCIS from its inception in 2003 until his departure in season 19. He played the iconic character for 18 seasons, leaving a lasting impact on the show and its viewers.