NCIS heavyweight Mark Harmon is set to make a comeback as Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the very first episode of the new CBS spin-off, NCIS: Origins.
The forthcoming prequel delves into Gibbs' early days at the investigative service, then known as the NIS, back in the early 90s.
While rising star Austin Stowell takes on the legendary part, Mark will grace the screen in a pivotal, albeit brief, moment to hand over the reins.
Though his role as series narrator was already confirmed, co-showrunner David J North has now spilled that Mark is also geared up for an on-screen stint.
Fans will be treated to the first fresh images of Gibbs since his last appearance in 2021's Great Wide Open, reports the Express.
David shared insights about this exciting return during a recent NCIS panel, per TVLine: "That was a discussion between Mark, myself and [co-showrunner] Gina Monreal," adding, "I hope the audience will be excited to see him after so many years."
The exact nature of Gibbs' reappearance remains under wraps and will probably stay that way until Origins hits TV screens next month.
There's speculation on whether the show will unveil what Gibbs has been up to post his 2021 exit from the team.
Or perhaps the show might offer flashbacks to unseen moments like a crucial mission briefing or a significant dialogue which took place away from our screens.
Regardless of how it plays out, David hinted at more chances for Mark to drop in again, suggesting Gibbs' present-day narrative may still have legs.
"We are focusing on him telling the story of 1991," he revealed. "As far as Mark appearing again, we are open to anything."
Excitement is building as millions are expected to catch the premiere of Origins along with the 22nd season of the original NCIS.
A recent trailer sparked debate among the show's dedicated fanbase; while some lamented the greenlighting of the prequel over the cancelled NCIS: Hawaii, others were pleasantly surprised by the sneak peek.
Admitting to being swayed by the trailer, a YouTube commenter remarked, "This looks way better than I thought it would and it has that streaming service quality to it."
Reflecting a shift in expectations, one chimed in, "I thought this was gonna be terrible," while another conceded, "But this looks amazing."
Nevertheless, the true measure of the series' success will undoubtedly come when viewers finally lay eyes on it, with its release less than a month away.
NCIS: Origins premieres Monday, October 14 on CBS. NCIS is available to stream on Disney+.
