Mark Harmon’s departure from NCIS shocked fans, leaving many wondering what truly led to his exit. The actor, who portrayed the iconic Leroy Jethro Gibbs for over 18 years, was the heart and soul of the series, and his sudden reduction in screen time in recent seasons had viewers speculating. It was eventually confirmed that Harmon would be stepping away from his lead role, but the decision was kept under wraps for months, adding to the mystery.

Reports indicate that Harmon’s decision to scale back was driven by a mix of personal and professional reasons. After nearly two decades of playing Gibbs, Harmon reportedly felt it was time to explore new opportunities and spend more time with his family. His desire for a change in direction was clear, and while fans were saddened by the news, many understood that after such a long run, a shift was inevitable.

Harmon’s reduced role in NCIS in the later seasons was a way to gracefully transition his character out without completely abandoning the show’s core. Though Gibbs officially exited in the 19th season, Harmon’s influence on the series remains evident in the show’s continued success and the lasting legacy of his character. While his departure marked the end of an era, it allowed NCIS to evolve and shift in new, exciting directions.