Reasons Behind Sean Harmon’s Absence as Leroy Jethro Gibbs in NCIS: Origins

NCIS: Origins, the latest exciting entry in the NCIS franchise, is set to debut its first episode soon, and fans are eager to explore the early days of Leroy Jethro Gibbs (originally portrayed by Mark Harmon, and later by Sean Harmon for seven episodes). This highly anticipated series will transport viewers back to the 1990s, adding a rich layer to the narrative.

Contrary to the initial assumptions when the show was first revealed, Sean Harmon, Mark Harmon’s son, will not take on the leading role. Instead, Austin Stowell, famously recognized for his role in Bridge of Spies, has been cast to play the younger Gibbs.

While fans expressed curiosity about Sean Harmon’s absence in the lead role despite his history as young Gibbs in the preceding NCIS series, Mark Harmon clarified that Sean is exploring various interests beyond acting and has opted to contribute creatively behind the scenes for this project. Mark emphasized that this decision was simply a matter of Sean’s personal preference.

The inaugural episode of NCIS: Origins is scheduled to air on October 14, 2024.

Reasons Behind Sean Harmon’s Decision Not to Star in NCIS: Origins

Having portrayed a younger version of Gibbs previously, many anticipated that Sean would reprise the role. However, according to Mark Harmon, Sean is engaged in numerous pursuits outside of acting and enjoys a variety of activities.

Mark Harmon shared his thoughts with Variety:

“He’s an actor, writer, producer, a surfer; he does a lot of things. At some point, you have to decide what path you want to take in life. I believe he made a choice and had to weigh what’s important to him. He enjoys executive producing.”

Although Sean Harmon will serve as an executive producer for the series, Austin Stowell will be in the limelight portraying the young Gibbs.

The casting of Stowell as young Gibbs was a thoughtful process; Mark Harmon elaborated on this in a separate interview with People. Amid numerous auditions, Stowell managed to create a notable impression. He recalled:

“I could sense a shift in the atmosphere when Austin entered the room, even before he spoke. After he left, someone remarked, ‘I’ll just say it — that’s a movie star.’

Stowell’s casting has been warmly received by fans, and with the show just hours away from its premiere, anticipation for the series and its characters is palpable.

Overview of NCIS: Origins

NCIS: Origins marks the sixth chapter in the NCIS series and acts as a prequel to the original NCIS. It is the earliest installment chronologically in the CBS drama lineup. The narrative begins in the early 1990s, capturing the evolution of the iconic character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs.

The series synopsis states:

“In NCIS: Origins, Gibbs begins his journey as a newly appointed special agent at the nascent NIS Camp Pendleton office, where he carves out his niche on a tough, unconventional team led by NCIS stalwart Mike Franks.”

In addition to Stowell and Harmon, the series features Mariel Molino, Kyle Schmid, Tyla Abercrumbie, and Diany Rodriguez in pivotal roles.

Mark your calendars, as NCIS: Origins Season 1 Episode 1 premieres on October 14, 2024, at 9:00 PM EST on CBS.

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