Mark Harmon is officially stepping back into the NCIS universe, but in a twist that has fans buzzing, it won’t be as the iconic Leroy Jethro Gibbs—at least not in the way they expect. Instead, Harmon is taking on a new role behind the scenes as the narrator and executive producer of *NCIS: Origins*, the highly anticipated prequel series set during Gibbs’ early years. While he won’t appear on screen, his voice and influence will be front and center as the story of young Gibbs unfolds.

This fresh take on the NCIS legacy will explore the beginnings of Gibbs’ career back in the 1990s, when he first joined the fledgling agency under the mentorship of a character played by Austin Stowell, who portrays the younger version of Gibbs. Harmon’s narration is expected to provide context, emotional depth, and a direct link to the main series, giving longtime fans a familiar anchor while introducing a new generation of agents.

Harmon’s return, albeit off-camera, has ignited a wave of excitement among fans who feared his departure from the main series was final. While some still hold out hope for an eventual on-screen cameo, his active role in shaping the new show shows his commitment to preserving and expanding the NCIS legacy. Producers have hinted that Harmon’s involvement has been crucial in keeping the prequel grounded in the spirit of the original.

For fans who’ve missed the quiet authority and moral compass of Gibbs, Harmon’s return—even just as a voice—feels like a homecoming. It may not be the classic Gibbs with a cup of coffee and a head slap, but his presence will be felt throughout *NCIS: Origins*, bridging the past and present of one of TV’s most enduring franchises.