“NCIS” Fans Outraged Over Mark Harmon’s Exit and Gibbs’ Replacement
Fans of NCIS are expressing outrage following Mark Harmon’s departure and the unexpected replacement of his character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Many are questioning how the long-running series can move forward without its iconic leader. The backlash intensified when a fan accused CBS of misleading viewers — an accusation that prompted a public response from the showrunner.
CBS Claimed Agent Parker Was Not a Replacement for Gibbs
Back in early 2021, rumors swirled about Mark Harmon’s possible exit before the end of Season 18. Though CBS initially denied the speculation and confirmed Harmon’s return for another season, the network also introduced Gary Cole as a new series regular. Cole took on the role of FBI Agent Alden Parker, but insiders insisted that his character was not intended to replace Gibbs.
However, by Season 19, Episode 5, titled “Face the Strange,” it became clear that Parker was stepping into Gibbs’ former role. While Harmon did return briefly for Season 19, the narrative soon pointed toward his farewell. Symbolic clues like the name of Gibbs’ boat — “Rule 91” — and Parker’s remarks about coincidences hinted at a changing of the guard.
Viewers Accuse CBS of Deception
The transition did not sit well with many fans. As Parker officially took over leadership of the team, viewers voiced strong dissatisfaction. Some accused CBS of “blatantly lying” about the direction of the series. A major point of contention was the decision to pass over long-time team member McGee in favor of Parker. Fans argued that Gibbs would have never chosen Parker over McGee, calling the move a betrayal of the show’s core dynamics.
Showrunner Steven D. Binder Responds to the Controversy
In response to the fan backlash, NCIS showrunner Steven D. Binder stepped in to clarify the show’s direction. Addressing the accusations directly, he said, “I wouldn’t presume Gibbs chose Parker over McGee.” He went on to suggest that Gibbs and McGee likely had thorough discussions about the team’s future off-screen. “What McGee conveyed to Torres during the stake-out… Gibbs was already aware,” Binder added, ending his statement with a reassuring smiley face.
Fans Still Wanted McGee to Lead
Despite Binder’s explanation, fans remain frustrated. Many believed that McGee, a loyal and long-standing member of the team, had earned the right to succeed Gibbs. On social media, particularly Twitter, users described the decision as a “slap in the face” to McGee’s character development. The debate continues as fans argue over who truly deserved to lead the team, with a significant portion firmly in McGee’s corner.
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