Following a recent disclosure by Mark Harmon, the reason why his son Sean Harmon will not be playing the role of young Gibbs in the prequel drama "NCIS: Origins" has been clarified.
"Bridge of Spies" actor Austin Stowell has taken over the role of Gibbs, previously played by the 36-year-old actor who appeared in the main series.
“He does a lot of things,” Mark, 73, said of his son, an exec producer on the show, implying that Sean was the one who first made the decision.
“You have to come to decisions about what you want to do in life, or what you think’s important,” Mark explained.
However, sources close to the situation informed Star that the reality may be more complicated.
“There’s some drama brewing behind the scenes,” a source told Star Magazine. “Mark said his son was no longer going to star as young Gibbs because he has a lot on his plate. Others are saying differently.”
To be more specific, they are claiming that CBS desired a more prominent actor to play the role and that Mark was willing to accept the offer. After all, Sean, one of Mark's two sons, who he shares with his wife Pam Dawber, does not have the most impressive resume.
“Growing the franchise is the bottom line,” the source explained. “Nothing against Sean, but Austin Stowell has the leading-man good looks and star power that the producers wanted.”
Mark, who is widely recognized for his role as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs on the critically acclaimed CBS program "NCIS," is now participating as a narrator in the production of a new spin-off prequel called "NCIS: Origins." He will also serve as the show's executive producer, as per Deadline.
Having played the role for close to twenty years, Mark is now assisting in bringing Gibbs' early years to life. Austin, who plays a younger version of the iconic character, is contributing to this endeavor.
"You come in and audition here for years and years, and all of a sudden, you're presented with a badge with your name on it," Austin shared regarding the fact that he is now working on the Paramount lot.
The show's set includes scenes that take place at Camp Pendleton, including venues such as Daley's Tavern, a tavern conveniently located off-base. With Austin, this is a role that will last a lifetime.
"I felt very confident in what I could bring to the character, and then the second you walk in the room, that all goes out the window," Austin added.
Business Times has reached out to Mark Harmon and CBS for comments.
