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Since former “NCIS” Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed by Mark Harmon, returned to the screen in “NCIS: Origins,” fans have been buzzing with curiosity about the name of his newly acquired canine companion. This marks Gibbs’ first appearance since his departure in Season 19 of “NCIS.” Although the dog remains unnamed in the show, Harmon recently shared his thoughts on the matter in response to a fan inquiry.
CBS
Ever since former “NCIS” Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon) acquired a dog friend in “NCIS: Origins” — in the older Gibbs’ first onscreen appearance since departing “NCIS” in Season 19 — fans have been wondering what he named the pooch. While the quasi-pet has no official onscreen name at this point, Harmon has weighed in with his thoughts on the topic after being prompted by a curious viewer.
Audiences familiar with “NCIS” and its spin-offs will remember that Gibbs found his new four-legged friend in Season 2, Episode 5 of “NCIS: Origins,” titled “Funny How Time Slips Away.” In this episode, Gibbs is seen living in his Alaskan retreat when the dog wanders into his life from the surrounding wilderness. Offering the visitor scraps and a listening ear, Gibbs allows the dog to stay, without any formal pledges of commitment.
Interestingly, when actor Brian Dietzen relayed a fan’s question to Mark Harmon—inquiring about how Gibbs spends his time nowadays—the actor sidestepped the query. While “NCIS: Origins” briefly touches on Gibbs’ life post-departure, showing him tinkering with gadgets, indulging in his passion for boats, and keeping informed via radio, many details of his daily activities remain undisclosed. However, Harmon has provided insight into Gibbs’ emotional journey, emphasizing how the dog’s presence alters his solitary existence.
Harmon noted, “Gibbs probably finds it more challenging to be around people than to be alone. But now, he’s not alone, right? That aspect was fascinating. This was an idea from David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal, and I thought, oh, that’s cool,” he shared with TV Insider.
Gibbs’ Alaskan existence remains somewhat mysterious
CBS
At the heart of this storyline is Gibbs’ enduring affection for dogs. Throughout the original series, several canine companions have come and gone from his life. While the mystery of this particular dog’s sudden appearance remains unsolved, it is clear that Gibbs is quietly pleased to have a loyal companion by his side.
After noting that Gibbs enjoys being by himself, Harmon said, “He probably has more challenges being around lots of people than he does being alone, but he’s not alone anymore, right? So that part was intriguing. This is an idea David [J. North, “NCIS: Origins” executive producer] and Gina [Lucita Monreal, executive producer] had, and it was like, oh, that’s cool,” he told TV Insider.
At the core of the story is puppy love. Gibbs has a long history of adoring hounds, and several have entered and left his life before on the mothership program. The mystery of how this particular dog came out of nowhere and landed on his doorstep hasn’t been solved yet — but while the animal’s future is currently unclear, it’s obvious that Gibbs is secretly happy to have a furry buddy nearby.