Mark Harmon and NCIS: Origins fans have reason to celebrate as the veteran actor, 74, returns to Camp Pendleton. Harmon will guest star in the first-ever crossover between NCIS and NCIS: Origins on November 11. Having portrayed Leroy Jethro Gibbs for 18 seasons on NCIS before his 2021 exit, this marks Harmon’s first on-camera appearance in the prequel series since his 2024 cameo. Fans have eagerly anticipated his return, and the crossover promises to bridge decades of storytelling in the franchise.
According to People, Harmon has remained involved with the NCIS universe, serving as an executive producer and the narrator for each episode of NCIS: Origins. His continued presence behind the scenes ensures consistency for longtime viewers.
Mark Harmon NCIS Origins Crossover Details
The crossover episode airing on Veterans Day will intertwine past and present. Younger Gibbs, played by Austin Stowell, investigates the 1990s death of a naval officer on NCIS: Origins. Meanwhile, the case unexpectedly resurfaces in the present on NCIS. Showrunners David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal teased that Gibbs “is no longer alone,” hinting at surprising reunions. This storyline allows fans to experience decades-spanning drama while connecting Harmon’s original portrayal with the prequel series.
Mark Harmon fans will also enjoy appearances by Kyle Schmid and Mariel Molino, who play younger versions of key agents. Harmon himself praised the storytelling, noting that the producers “continue to push boundaries and dive deeper into the characters’ backstories.” His return not only celebrates his legacy but also strengthens the narrative continuity between NCIS and its prequel, offering viewers a richer understanding of Gibbs’ journey.
Anticipation and Viewing Information
The NCIS: Origins episode airs first at 8 p.m. ET, followed by NCIS at 9 p.m. ET on CBS. Both episodes will stream on Paramount+, available live or on demand depending on the subscription plan. Fans are already sharing their excitement online, speculating about how Gibbs will interact with younger characters and what new twists might emerge. The crossover promises to be a historic event for longtime viewers of the franchise.
The NCIS universe continues to captivate audiences as he returns to the role that defined much of his career. This appearance allows fans to reconnect with Gibbs while exploring the early days of his story in the ’90s. For anyone who has followed the series for years, the crossover offers a perfect mix of nostalgia and fresh storytelling, making it a must-watch event this Veterans Day.