After years of speculation, NCIS has officially confirmed what many fans feared — Mark Harmon’s departure is permanent. Though he left the show quietly during Season 19, CBS had never fully closed the door on his return. But now, with a new season ahead and no signs of Gibbs in sight, the network has confirmed Harmon is no longer part of the active cast.

The news brings a mix of emotions for longtime viewers. Mark Harmon wasn’t just a lead actor — he was NCIS. His portrayal of Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs became the heart and backbone of the series. Fans clung to hope that he might one day make a dramatic return, even just for a farewell arc.

Producers have expressed deep gratitude for Harmon’s decades of work, calling him “irreplaceable” and promising to honor his legacy in future storylines. They also hinted at potential tributes or mentions of Gibbs in upcoming episodes, keeping his spirit alive in the world he helped build.

While it’s the end of an era, many fans feel closure knowing the truth at last. And though Gibbs may be gone from the screen, his impact on the NCIS family will never fade.