In the competitive world of television, while many shows disappear after a few seasons, others become legends in their own right.
NCIS falls squarely into the second category. Beginning in 2003 as a promising backdoor pilot on CBS’s JAG, few could have predicted its unprecedented success.
Under the skillful hands of co-creators Donald P. Bellisario, known for classics such as Magnum, PI and Quantum Leap, and Don McGill, known for hits such as Numbers and CSI, NCIS introduced audiences to the complex world of DC’s Naval Criminal Investigative Service .
Led by Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed by Mark Harmon, the series quickly amassed a loyal fan base.
With a dynamic cast including Michael Weatherly, Sasha Alexander, Pauley Perrette and David McCallum, NCIS has cemented its position as CBS’ crown jewel, boasting the title of the network’s #1 drama for five consecutive years.
© CBSMark Harmon and Pauley Perrette as Gibbs and Abby on NCIS
Connected
NCIS bosses share rare details about Pauley Perrette’s departure, tension with Mark Harmon and how much she’s been missed
NCIS bosses share rare details about Pauley Perrette’s departure, tension with Mark Harmon and how much she’s been missedIts massive appeal has spawned four spin-offs, with NCIS: Sydney being the latest addition, premiering this fall.
To mark the series’ 20th anniversary since its premiere in 2003, The Hollywood Reporter organized a gathering with the brilliant minds behind this behemoth series.
© CBS Photo Archive Mark Harmon’s wife Pam Dawber was hesitant to join NCIS for a guest role
This included not only Bellisario and McGill, but industry leaders such as executive producers Charles Floyd Johnson and Mark Horowitz, along with a host of influential names from CBS.
The enlightening discussion touched on many of the elements that contributed to the show’s longevity, ranging from casting decisions and behind-the-scenes transitions to its evolving characters and the secrets to keeping fans engaged.
© Getty Images Harrison Ford was considered for the role of Leroy
One of the most intriguing aspects revealed was the process of casting the character of Leroy Jethro Gibbs.
The choice was far from simple. The creative team considered a veritable “who’s who” of A-listers for the lead role.
Harrison Ford’s name was among those thrown into the ring, as Charles Floyd Johnson recalled: “I know Harrison Ford was the name everyone was thinking about for Gibbs because he was so perfect.”
© CBSMark Harmon and Michael Weatherly in NCIS
However, as NCIS director Susan Bluestein explained, the initial brainstorming spawned other notable names such as Alec Baldwin, Chris Cooper, Clive Owen, Kevin Bacon, and even Charlie Sheen, among others. Don McGill provided further insight, noting Andrew McCarthy’s short time in considering Gibbs.
However, the course of the show’s history changed when Bluestein mentioned Mark Harmon. For many, Harmon was a heavyweight, and the general sentiment was the same as Peter Golden: “What about Mark Harmon? We’ll make an offer to Mark Harmon, and when we don’t get him, let’s go through the list of who else we can get.”
To everyone’s delight, and perhaps surprise, Harmon’s meeting with Bellisario was a success. They found their Gibbs.
NCIS’s rise to global acclaim is a testament to the combined creative ability of its creators, casting decisions, and actors’ performances.
But as fans of the series will attest, while other characters have left their mark, there is only one Leroy Jethro Gibbs. And it’s hard to imagine anyone but Mark Harmon at the helm.
Categories: Entertaintment
Source: HIS Education