Skip to Content

NCIS: Gary Cole Speaks Out After Replacing Mark Harmon as Team Leader

A new era of NCIS is underway.

The veteran CBS series has officially said goodbye to Mark Harmon's Leroy Jethro Gibbs and hello to Gary Cole's Alden Parker.

If you watch NCIS online, you know there was much apprehension from the team to accept Parker, but somewhere along the way, he's proven to be a worthy successor.

Gibbs and Parker - NCIS
(Michael Yarish/CBS)

"Parker isn't overly chatty, but he is more verbal," Cole said in an interview with TVInsider about his role. 

"He's not as old school; he tries to get his hands on new tech gadgets and impress everybody."

"He's trying to fit in with the rest of the team. Although he may be reluctant to voice it, he admires that Gibbs breaks rules."

You're Mine Now - NCIS Season 19 Episode 3
(Michael Yarish/CBS)

"Parker bends them. We'll see if it gets to the point of breaking."

We don't know much about Parker, but the show will delve deeper into that in the coming episodes.

"There's a situation that did not go according to plan, and something tragic happened. He's purposely kind of an enigma," Cole explained to the outlet.

Harmon officially departed NCIS last month, and Alden was a part of the reason he escaped custody.

Gary Cole on NCIS Season 19 Episode 3
(Michael Yarish/CBS)

Alden was supposed to arrest him, but he recognized Gibbs was not a bad person, and felt like arresting him would be a bad thing to do.

The rash decision cost Alden his job with the FBI, which is why Vance was open to bringing him over to the NCIS on a more permanent basis.

Harmon has yet to respond to his departure, while showrunner Steven S. Binder released a statement when the final episode with Gibbs aired.

"As an executive producer and dear friend, Mark continues to be an integral part of the fabric of the show," the statement begins.

Gibbs Listens - NCIS Season 19 Episode 4
(Cliff Lipson/CBS)

"Our north star has always been staying true to our characters, and that truth has always guided the stories we tell and where those characters go."

"So regarding the future of Gibbs, as long-time fans of the show may have noticed over the years…never count Leroy Jethro Gibbs out," it concludes.

What are your thoughts on Gary Cole so far?

Hit the comments below.

Clarke Griffin's Existence (The 100)

Theresa

Thursday 7th of May 2026

I think Gary Cole is doing a fantastic job. He’s a great addition to the show. MCIS. Is actually my favorite night time drama series along with FBI

Nancy

Thursday 8th of May 2025

I prefer Cole to Harmon.

Lori

Saturday 8th of February 2025

I think he is doing a great job. Miss Gibbs, but still love the show!

Linda Yantis

Sunday 1st of December 2024

It was hard to see Mark Harmon leave but I’ve always liked Gary Cole too. I like that he’s very different than Gibbs. Gibbs is very “cut and dried”. Rule #5, etc. It’s fun to see a more relaxed character. Good choice!

Sue. Hermann

Wednesday 16th of October 2024

I like Gary Cole. Also like the newer team & hope they all continue

Most Commented

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!