After months of speculation and subtle hints, NCIS star Gary Cole has finally opened up about what fans and insiders have long suspected. The veteran actor, who took on the challenging role of Alden Parker following Mark Harmon’s departure, has now confirmed that his involvement in NCIS was never meant to be “just a replacement”—it was part of a long-term vision shaped by mutual trust between him and the show’s creators.

In a candid moment during a recent public appearance, Cole acknowledged that he initially kept quiet about the extent of his commitment to the franchise. “There were a lot of rumors,” he said. “People thought I was just filling a gap or passing time. But the truth is, I’m in this for the long haul.” His confirmation brings relief to fans who had worried that his character might be short-lived or written off as part of a transitional phase.

What’s more, Cole revealed that discussions about evolving the character of Alden Parker had been taking place behind the scenes even before his on-screen debut. “We talked about building someone who wasn’t trying to be Gibbs, but someone who could earn his own place in the team and in the hearts of viewers,” Cole explained. This strategic approach appears to have worked, with many fans now embracing Parker as a worthy addition to the NCIS legacy.

Now that Gary Cole has cleared the air, fans can look forward to deeper storylines and more character development in the upcoming seasons. His confirmation not only puts an end to the speculation but also reinforces the idea that NCIS remains committed to evolving while staying true to its core appeal.