Emily Wickersham, star of NCIS, has written a tribute to co-star Mark Harmon after learning of his departure.
Mark Harmon said his ultimate goodbye to CBS and his NCIS character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs, on Monday night, after portraying the part for 18 years. The poignant episode affected many fans, including alum Ellie Bishop star Emily Wickersham, who penned a homage to the actor.
The actress posted a screenshot of the D3adline piece regarding Mark’s surprise departure to her Instagram stories.
“Big compliments to this guy,” she wrote over the top of the photo, adding, “What a run.”
A portrait of the long-running NCIS cast member was also included in the screenshot. Emily understood Mark’s emotions as an NCIS alum, as she also left the show after seven seasons.
Her departure from the program was another surprise for fans, as her character had grown to become a fan favorite.
Ellie Bishop (Ellie Wickersham) debuted on NCIS in season 11 as a liaison officer for the crew through the National Security Agency.
She was later promoted to NCIS Probationary Agent, but it was her relationship with NCIS Agent Nick Torres (Wilmer Valderrama) that fans adored.
She did, however, leave to undertake an undercover mission with no idea when she would return.
While there was considerable suspicion about Gibb’s (Mark Harmon) departure, viewers were taken aback when he left four episodes into season 19.
Gibbs had left NCIS during the episode Great Wide Open because he had a warrant out for his arrest.
Despite the fact that everything had been straightened up, NCIS Director Leon Vance (Rocky Carroll) informed Nick Torres and Jessica Knight (Katrina Law) that the former Special Agent had no intention of returning his badge.
Instead, he had regained himself, as he described to Timothy McGee during a fishing trip (Sean Murray).
“This sense of serenity, I haven’t experienced since Shannon and Kelly d1ed, and I’m not ready to let it go,” Gibbs admitted.
Steven D. Binder, showrunner and executive producer, also paid tribute to Mark on Instagram.
He posted a photo of the actor with the statement, “As an executive producer and dear friend, Mark continues to be a vital part of the fabric of the program.”
“Our north star has always been keeping true to our characters,” he continued, “and that truth has always guided the stories we write and where those characters go.”
“In terms of Gibbs’ future, as long-time viewers of the show may have noticed throughout the years… “Never underestimate Leroy Jethro Gibbs,” he said.
With the door left open for a return, fans could see Gibbs make an unexpected appearance shortly.
While fans are heartbroken by Gibb’s departure, it’s fair to argue the character deserves a tranquil retirement in Alaska.
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