When NCIS Season 21 aired its deeply emotional episode honoring Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, many fans expected one familiar face to return — Leroy Jethro Gibbs. With Ducky being one of the most important figures in Gibbs’ life, the absence of Mark Harmon immediately sparked questions, speculation, and disappointment across the fandom.
However, the decision for Gibbs not to appear was far from accidental.
Behind the scenes, the show’s creative team made a conscious choice to let the episode focus fully on Ducky’s legacy, rather than turning the moment into a major character comeback. According to sources close to the production, bringing Gibbs back — even briefly — risked shifting attention away from the emotional core of the episode and the character it was meant to honor.
Mark Harmon, who has remained closely connected to NCIS even after stepping away from the screen, reportedly supported the decision. The goal was to keep the tribute sincere, restrained, and respectful — allowing Ducky’s impact on the team, and on the audience, to stand on its own.
Fans were also reminded that Gibbs’ story had already reached a meaningful and peaceful conclusion. Revisiting him in such a heavy moment might have disrupted the quiet finality of his departure, something the writers were careful to preserve.
While many viewers still wished to see Gibbs one last time alongside Ducky, others praised the episode for its emotional restraint and authenticity — proving that sometimes, absence can be just as powerful as presence.
💬 Do you think Gibbs should have returned for the Ducky episode, or was it the right call to let the tribute stand on its own? Share your thoughts in the comments below.