Mark Harmon: Leroy Jethro Gibbs Has Fewer Screen Time in ‘NCIS’ Season 17? Here's Why That's Unlikely Happening

Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs is at the center of the “NCIS” franchise. But it could be a worrisome situation if the rumors are true that he will have fewer scenes in the show’s anticipated 17th season.

A recent report from Celebrity Insider claimed that, while Harmon will return for “NCIS” season 17, he purportedly asked to be included in lesser scenes. This time, the rumor suggested that Harmon wants to spend less time in filming and more time at European tourist spots with his wife, Pam Dawber.

The same report referred to an insider who said, “They’re closer than ever, even after all these years. Pam’s been Mark’s rock through family dramas, court battles and on-set wars with his co-stars.” The same source claimed that Harmon is looking to tour around France, Portugal, Germany, Spain, and Italy with his wife of 32 years. Dawber is also a Hollywood actress, especially known for her titular role on the CBS sitcom “My Sister Sam” that aired from 1986 to 1988.

Harmon or his representatives have yet to respond to the recent claims. However, fans may recall that the same publication ran a story in late 2018 that Harmon is leaving “NCIS” due to his “failing health.” However, the actor’s spokesperson denied the report telling Page Six that it was “completely false.”

The veteran actor does not show any signs of slowing down in his Hollywood career, too. Just recently, Harmon implied that he is willing to play the part of Gibbs as long as “NCIS” writers and producers do not run out of quality ideas for the viewers.

“Nothing goes on forever, but you’ve got to respect what this show is doing, 16 years in, and how it’s doing it, and the people who are there punching in every morning and building what this is,” Harmon said in an issue of PEOPLE magazine in March. “There’s a tremendous about of pride there, so I see no reason to leave.”