Fans of the long-running television series NCIS are in for a treat as Mark Harmon and Michael Weatherly prepare to return to the screen together for the first time in a decade. The much-anticipated reunion will take place in the new series NCIS: Origins, which is set to air on October 20th.
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Both Harmon and Weatherly will reprise their iconic roles from the original NCIS series, which initially premiered in 2003. Harmon, now 75, will once again portray Leroy Jethro Gibbs, a character that has become synonymous with the show. Meanwhile, Weatherly, 58, will return as Anthony D. “Tony” DiNozzo Jr., the senior field agent who served under Gibbs’s command.
Originally, Gibbs, a former U.S. Marine Corps Scout Sniper, led a team within the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, where the series unfolded over 18 successful seasons. The new episode of NCIS: Origins aims to delve into the backstory of Gibbs and how he became integral to the NCIS. Austin Stowell has been cast to play a younger version of Harmon’s character, adding an intriguing dynamic to the narrative.
Harmon’s departure from NCIS in 2021 marked the end of an era, as he had been a stalwart of the series since its inception. Despite his exit from the main cast, former CBS Entertainment President Kelly Kahl reassured fans that Harmon would always remain a significant part of the NCIS franchise. “Mark’s always been part of the show, Mark’s always going to be part of the show,” Kahl confirmed back in September 2021, leaving open the possibility of future appearances.
Weatherly’s journey with the franchise is equally notable. After leading the brief spinoff NCIS: Tony & Ziva in 2025 alongside Cote de Pablo, he made a cameo in NCIS the following year, highlighting his enduring connection to the series. His rapport with de Pablo, who played Ziva David, has been well-documented; many of their interactions featured improvised lines that resonated with fans.
“What I love so much about working with Cote,” Weatherly remarked in a past interview, “is that sometimes the next line that comes out of my mouth is, ‘I have no response to that.’” This insightful approach to the characters brought authenticity to their performances, showcasing the chemistry that fans have cherished throughout the years.
This upcoming episode of NCIS: Origins has generated considerable excitement among the devoted followers of the series, eager to witness how the story will unfold. Scheduled to air on CBS at 10 p.m. Eastern Time, it will also be available for streaming on Paramount+. Many fans view this reunion as an opportunity not only to celebrate their favourite characters but also to reminisce about the emotional journey they shared over the years.
As the premiere date approaches, social media activity surrounding the show has surged, with many expressing their anticipation for the onscreen reconnection between Harmon and Weatherly. Their return not only evokes nostalgia but also reinforces the enduring legacy of NCIS and its ability to engage viewers across different generations.
In a landscape where television shows often come and go, NCIS has maintained a commendable presence since its premiere. The return of Harmon and Weatherly will undoubtedly further solidify its significance in the realm of popular culture. As fans prepare for this exciting reunion, it remains clear that the bond forged between Gibbs and DiNozzo will continue to resonate, even as they navigate new challenges in the narrative arc of NCIS: Origins.
With a wealth of anticipation building around the show, the reunion promises to be a highlight not just for the actors but for a loyal audience eager to relive the legacy of one of television’s most celebrated partnerships.