"NCIS" casting director Susan Bluestein revealed that several high-profile actors, including Alec Baldwin, Chris Cooper, Clive Owen, and Kevin Bacon, were considered for the role of Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs before Mark Harmon was chosen. Harmon's portrayal of Gibbs became iconic, and when he decided to leave the show, there were concerns about its future. However, the introduction of Gary Cole as Agent Alden Parker marked the start of a new era for "NCIS.
" Despite not being the first choice, Harmon's tenure and popularity made him the right one for the role.
