It’s hard to imagine NCIS without Mark Harmon as Leroy Jethro Gibbs. For nearly two decades, he was the heart of the show, a character so iconic that many thought his departure would mark the end of the series.
However, NCIS surprised everyone by not just surviving but thriving, even after Harmon left during Season 19. So, how did the show manage to carry on? Let’s dive into the story behind the transition and the new life Gary Cole’s Alden Parker brought to the team.
Gary Cole brought a fresh energy to NCIS with Alden Parker. Unlike Gibbs, who was a stern father figure, Parker is more like the approachable uncle. Executive producer Mark Horowitz described Parker as someone who only uses his authority when necessary, preferring to work alongside his team as an equal.
Cole embraced this vision, making Parker a relatable and modern leader who’s not afraid to crack a joke or share a pastry.
Mark Harmon’s departure from NCIS
Mark Harmon’s decision to leave wasn’t sudden. Between Seasons 18 and 19, there were whispers about his potential exit. By this point, Harmon had dedicated almost 20 years to the show and wanted to step back.
“I was just tired,”
Harmon admitted during an interview. He reflected on the grueling early years of 22-hour workdays. His limited appearance in the first four episodes of Season 19 wasn’t just a creative choice but a strategy to ease the transition and ensure the show’s renewal.
The producers initially feared that his departure might spell the end for NCIS. Executive producer Charles Floyd Johnson even admitted it felt like the “death knell” for the series. But Harmon’s willingness to stay for a few episodes allowed the team to introduce a new leader and soften the blow for fans.
Instead of abruptly replacing Gibbs, the writers opted for a gradual handover. Enter Alden Parker, played by Gary Cole. Introduced as an FBI agent working alongside Gibbs, Parker’s character wasn’t immediately thrust into the spotlight. He and Gibbs collaborated on cases, building a storyline that allowed fans to get to know Parker while still enjoying Gibbs' presence.
Their dynamic came to a head when Parker let Gibbs walk free in Alaska, a decision that cost him his FBI job. By the end of “Face the Strange,” Parker stepped into Gibbs’ shoes as the team leader. This thoughtful transition made it easier for fans to accept the change.
NCIS post-Gibbs
Despite initial doubts, NCIS has continued to thrive. Season 22 is now airing, and Parker’s character has been well-received by fans. The show has also embraced new storylines, like Parker’s mysterious hallucination of a little girl in the Season 21 finale, leaving viewers eager for answers.
Meanwhile, Mark Harmon remains connected to the franchise as an executive producer. He even made a brief on-screen appearance in NCIS: Origins, proving that his bond with the series isn’t entirely over.
Gibbs’ final case in Alaska was a fitting send-off. Investigating environmental corruption and facing off against a hitman, Gibbs’ story came full circle. His decision to stay in Alaska symbolized his search for peace, something he hadn’t felt since losing his wife and daughter.
The moment he tossed his phone into a coffee mug was a quiet yet powerful declaration that his time with NCIS had come to an end.
With Gary Cole at the helm, NCIS is charting new territory. Fans can also look forward to the Tony & Ziva spinoff, which promises to bring back beloved characters. Through it all, the show’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots ensures its enduring success.
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Mark Harmon’s departure from NCIS marked the end of an era, but it wasn’t the end of the show. By carefully introducing Alden Parker and crafting a seamless transition, NCIS proved it could continue to captivate audiences. Both Harmon and Cole have played vital roles in this journey, ensuring that the series remains as compelling as ever.
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