by Thinus Ferreira
Mark Harmon has exited the long-running series NCIS, seen on M-Net (DStv 101) and NBCUniversal (DStv 117), and his long-running role of Leroy Jethro Gibbs that he has played into 19 seasons.
In the 4th episode of the 19th season of NCIS entitled "Great Wide Open" after solving a case revolving around a polluting copper mine, Mark Harmon's character decides not to return to work and to remain in Alaska.
"As an executive producer and dear friend, Mark continues to be an integral part of the fabric of the show," says Steve Binder, NCIS showrunner in a statement about Mark Harmon's exit.
"Our north star has always been staying true to our characters, and that truth has always guided the stories we tell and where those characters go. So regarding the future of Gibbs, as long-time fans of the show may have noticed over the years… never count Leroy Jethro Gibbs out."
