As CBS’ long-running police procedural, NCIS, celebrates two decades on the air, the absence of major cameos in Season 20 defies popular theories.
The show, a rare spin-off with a longer run than its predecessor, JAG (1995), left fans speculating about the return of notable stars.
Mark Harmon’s iconic role as Leroy Jethro Gibbs remains a focal point, and recent comments from the actor suggest a willingness to reprise the character under specific conditions.
As NCIS Season 20 unfolded, speculation mounted regarding potential cameos from fan-favorite characters, including Gibbs and Tony DiNozzo. Given the show’s milestone and the departure of long-time stars, expectations were high for their return.
However, the season chose to focus on the current crew, leaving the original characters absent from the narrative.
The unexpected death of David McCallum, who portrayed Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, adds significance to the potential return of Gibbs in NCIS Season 21.
Ducky, an original cast member since 2003, shared a deep history with Gibbs and DiNozzo. As the chief medical examiner, his character contributed immensely to the show’s narrative.
Given McCallum’s passing, it becomes imperative for Gibbs, played by Harmon, to make a poignant return in Season 21. A tribute episode honoring Ducky’s legacy could be a fitting occasion for Gibbs to re-enter the storyline.
This wouldn’t necessitate an extensive appearance but could serve as a heartfelt gesture as Gibbs pays homage to his longtime friend and colleague.
Harmon’s Openness to a Gibbs Comeback
In a recent interview with ET Online, Mark Harmon expressed his openness to stepping back into the shoes of Leroy Jethro Gibbs for NCIS. However, he emphasized a crucial condition for his potential return.
While Harmon remains receptive to the idea, he clarified that, as of now, he has no information about any plans to bring Gibbs back.
The actor’s full quote paints a picture of Gibbs possibly enjoying a quiet life in Alaska, leaving the door ajar for a return if the right circumstances arise.
Assuming NCIS plans a tribute episode for the late David McCallum, a Gibbs cameo becomes crucial in navigating the emotional landscape of the storyline.
Gibbs, taking a break from his streamside solitude in Alaska, could offer a meaningful tribute to Ducky, reflecting on their shared history and the impact of his character on the NCIS narrative.
While the show successfully navigated Season 20 without Gibbs, the void left by McCallum’s absence underscores the significance of a character-driven tribute in Season 21.
Gibbs, in his quiet yet impactful way, could contribute to the emotional resonance of the episode, allowing fans to bid farewell to Ducky and acknowledging the enduring friendships forged within the NCIS universe.
As Mark Harmon contemplates the possibility of reprising his role as Leroy Jethro Gibbs, the conditions for his return remain shrouded in mystery. With NCIS Season 21 poised to address the legacy of David McCallum’s Ducky, Gibbs’ potential cameo adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative.
Whether Gibbs emerges from his streamside retreat in Alaska depends on the show’s direction and Harmon’s alignment with the envisioned storyline.
As fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter, the prospect of a conditional encore for Leroy Jethro Gibbs adds an intriguing dimension to the evolving saga of NCIS.
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