Gary Cole stepped into some big shoes when he joined NCIS as Alden Parker, taking over the team after the departure of the iconic Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by Mark Harmon. It wasn’t an easy transition for the show or the fans, but Cole brought his own unique energy to the role. Since his first appearance in Season 19, he’s appeared in over 60 episodes, quickly becoming a steady and respected presence on the team.

Parker is different from Gibbs, more laid-back, quirky, and dry-witted, but that’s exactly what helped him win over viewers. Gary Cole managed to honor the legacy of the series while making the character his own, and the NCIS family welcomed him with open arms. Off-screen, he’s described as warm, humble, and incredibly professional, with cast members often praising how effortlessly he fit in.

At a time when fans were unsure about the show’s future without Gibbs, Cole proved that NCIS could evolve while still keeping its heart. Today, Alden Parker isn’t just accepted – he’s genuinely loved