Mark Harmon, born in Burbank, California on September 2, 1951, had a unique upbringing. His father, a former football player-turned-broadcaster, and his mother, an artist and actress, seemed to set the stage for Mark to pursue either football or acting.
However, Mark’s ambitions were broader, dreaming of a career in theater or film. His time spent with his brother-in-law Ricky Nelson, who acted on the sitcom “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet,” ignited Mark’s passion for acting.
From Football to Acting
Mark made the bold decision to abandon his dream of becoming a professional football player to focus on an acting career. After taking acting classes, he quickly landed his first TV and movie roles. Throughout his early career, he had the opportunity to work with esteemed actors like Michael Caine and Jason Robards, who became his mentors. A significant breakthrough came with his role on the drama series “St. Elsewhere,” where his exceptional acting abilities drew the attention of producers.
Family Over Fame
Despite his success, after over a decade in the industry, Mark realized he was missing out on important moments with his family. He made the difficult decision to step back from his demanding career to prioritize his loved ones.
During this period, he received the script for the television series “NCIS” and was captivated by the character Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Mark’s portrayal of Gibbs resonated with audiences worldwide, and the show became a massive hit, drawing millions of viewers each week. His performance earned him a People’s Choice Award for Favorite TV Crime Drama Actor in 2017.
Relationships on Set
Throughout his time on “NCIS,” Mark developed strong relationships with his co-stars. Although there were some reported tensions with a fellow cast member, overall, Mark was well-liked on set. His co-star Sean Murray, who plays Timothy McGee, described Mark as a mentor, best friend, and the “quarterback” of the show.
After an incredible 423 episodes, Mark’s final episode as Leroy Jethro Gibbs aired on October 9. While his departure left fans inconsolable, there is still hope for a future reunion. Showrunner and executive producer Steven D. Binder affirmed that Leroy Jethro Gibbs should never be counted out.
Beyond Acting
Outside of acting, Mark has expressed an interest in carpentry. In an interview, he revealed that he would have pursued a career as a carpenter if not for acting. He finds satisfaction in working with materials and creating something that can outlast him.
Mark’s departure from “NCIS” was handled with subtlety, as he preferred a low-key exit. He asked the network not to promote his final episode heavily, allowing him to gracefully transition from the show and focus on his family and potential future projects. Mark’s grounded and humble approach to his career and personal life continues to inspire those around him.
