NCIS' Last Original Actor Leaves the Series after 22 Seasons

NCIS - a well-loved crime drama, airing since 2003, remains a staple among its fans. One thing that keeps it going is our familiar cast members. Sadly, most original ones have moved on, with the latest departure being NCIS' seasoned "soldier".

So, what exactly is NCIS? Simply put, it's a military crime drama launched in 2003. It's enjoyed significant success, spawning several spin-off series like NCIS: LA, NCIS: New Orleans, and NCIS: Origins. The series typically revolves around incidents within the U.S. military.

Many credit the series' enduring popularity to endearing characters deeply rooted in viewer's hearts. Fan favorites include characters like Gibbs, who shared screen space with his actual son, Ziva, and Tony. However, many of these veteran actors have since departed, with Fornell being the latest casualty.

Now, someone else steps up to the plate

Who's stepping in? In the inaugural episode, we meet the core team of Gibbs (Mark Harmon), Tony (Michael Weatherly), Abby (Pauley Perette), and Dr. Mallard (David McCallum), along with Fornell (Joe Spano).

A close ally of Gibbs, Fornell was part of the FBI. Whenever there were FBI-related cases, Fornell was called upon. Despite their occasional rivalry, they share a bond through Gibbs' former wife. He made appearances in 56 episodes across all seasons except season 17.

However, in 2019, Mark Harmon exited the series, replaced by Alden Parker portrayed by Gary Cole. In season 22's fourth episode, he clashed with the FBI, as per usual. The FBI chief, Wayne Sweeney, is played by Erik Passoja. The two vie for control of the case, leading to a standoff between NCIS and the FBI.

This echoes the rivalry between Gibbs and Fornell. Simultaneously, the episode hints at a camaraderie between Sweeney and Parker akin to that between Gibbs and Fornell.

Without Gibbs and the FBI's renewed vigor, there's little need for Fornell's character beyond brief cameos. Without Gibbs, there's no personal depth for Fornell. His role has been redefined and handed over to a new character. Thus far, he hasn't appeared in season 22.

He was one of the final vets of the series

Fornell was set to be the next to depart. Numerous long-serving characters bid adieu, including the head of NCIS:

• Mark Harmon (Gibbs) exited in season 19
• Pauley Perette (Abby) left in season 15
• Michael Weatherly (Tony) stepped down in season 13.
• Cote de Pablo (Ziva) departed in season 11
• David McCallum (Ducky) passed away in 2023 at the ripe old age of 90.

In a podcast by Cote de Pablo and Michael Weatherly (available via Spotify), the Fornell actor shared his reluctance to become a permanent fixture in the series, citing fear of becoming too identified with the character:

I didn't want that. I didn't want to have to do what you did. […] It's unspeakable really, because you're turned into something and you have to be that to a certain extent, promote the show, respond to people who see you in a certain way.

Such a lengthy series requires commitment from actors, both during shooting and beyond. They are often perceived as their characters and must convey this image to the public. Joe Spano ultimately decided against this burden.

Nonetheless, despite these losses, the series soldier on, introducing fresh characters to bridge the void left behind by departed fan favorites. Are you still tuning in to NCIS or have you missed out on your favorite characters? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Source(s): Collider , NCIS Database