Explosive Revelation: Shocking Truth Behind NCIS Creator's 16-Year Feud with Mark Harmon Finally Exposed!

Summary

Sixteen years ago, co-creator Donald P. Bellisario left NCIS due to conflicts with the star Mark Harmon.

Harmon and Bellisario had a strained relationship, but without them, there would be no NCIS.

Harmon is praised as a solid and committed professional who demands everyone to show up ready to go.

Sixteen years after Donald P. Bellisario, one of the co-creators of NCIS, departed from the show, the remaining co-creators, producers, and director recently discussed the conflict that led to his departure. NCIS, which initially started in 2003 as a spin-off of JAG, focuses on the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and has now become successful enough to have its own spin-offs, including NCIS: Los Angeles, New Orleans, Hawai'i, and the upcoming Sydney. Throughout the first 19 seasons, Mark Harmon portrayed agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs.

While fans eagerly anticipate the release of NCIS season 21, key members of the show's creative team spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about its enduring success. Executive producer Charles Floyd Johnson, co-creator Donald P. Bellisario, co-creator Don McGill, executive producer Horowitz, director James Whitmore Jr., and casting director Susan Bluestein all shed light on the rift between Bellisario and Harmon that resulted in Bellisario stepping away from the show. Read their insightful comments below.

JOHNSON (executive producer): Actors eventually became unsure about their character development and couldn't make sense of their lines due to the complexity of the show at the beginning. Around year four, Harmon felt overwhelmed by the challenges. He never explicitly asked for Don to be removed, but expressed that the working conditions were too difficult. Eventually, the network suggested to Bellisario that he should take a step back and work from a distance, reducing his involvement. As a result, Bellisario left by the fifth year.

BELLISARIO (co-creator): It was simply time for me to pursue other opportunities. I felt that I had contributed enough to the show, so I made the decision to step away.

JOHNSON (executive producer): Throughout the process, I found myself in a central position. I successfully bridged the gap, collaborating with both Harmon and Don. It was a challenging task, but I managed to accomplish it. Whenever things went astray, I felt responsible for getting things back on track and maintaining unity within the team. However, I hold Don in high regard. Without him, NCIS would not exist. The individuals who truly propelled the show forward and preserved its essence were Bellisario and Harmon.

WHITMORE JR. (director): Mark Harmon exemplifies professionalism and unwavering dedication to his craft. He continuously exhibits creativity and unwavering support for his fellow actors. He expects everyone to arrive prepared and ready to work, just as he does. He is not one to waste time or fool around.

MCGILL (co-creator): I am only aware of what was mentioned in the industry publications. (Laughs.) I do know that Mark was dissatisfied and their relationship became tense. I am not privy to the details as I was not present. It is simply a common occurrence in Hollywood, where creative differences arise.

BLUESTEIN (casting director): I have always held a special affection for Don as he treated me exceptionally well. I have always been grateful to Don.

HOROWITZ (executive producer): He was the unquestionable leader and creator of the show. There was always a lingering question in people's minds: How would it continue?

JOHNSON (executive producer): It was difficult for all of us to fathom because he had always been intricately involved in every aspect of the show, shaping the characters' development. I briefly took on the role of showrunner alongside Shane Brennan, but I wasn't primarily a writer. Eventually, we brought in a couple of writers to oversee the show creatively. However, I consider myself fortunate. My longstanding presence and strong relationships allowed me to remain on board and contribute as a valuable producer. Clearly, it paid off since I'm still here. (Laughs.)

Mark Harmon's Role In NCIS Explained

Gibbs has been a dominant figure and focal point of NCIS since its inception, which is why his departure in season 19 posed a significant challenge for the show. Harmon chose to leave NCIS early on in season 19, allowing the series an opportunity to demonstrate its ability to attract viewers without him. This decision showcased Harmon's unwavering commitment to the show.

Although Bellisario and Harmon experienced significant conflict, both played a crucial role in shaping the show into what it is today. The producers never anticipated Harmon accepting the role of Gibbs, making his lengthy and impactful portrayal even more remarkable. Harmon dedicated his career to embodying this character for 19 seasons. However, there was a moment in season 4 where it appeared that Harmon almost quit NCIS, but the departure of Bellisario ultimately persuaded him to stay.

Harmon's reputation lies in his unwavering support for others and wholehearted commitment to his roles. It is this unwavering determination that allowed him to stay with NCIS for numerous years, and it is also the reason he excelled in the role of the devoted Gibbs. Despite Bellisario's departure from NCIS, Harmon's dedication and affection for the show played a pivotal role in its continued success and survival.