Actor Gary Cole shared his thoughts on joining the long-running TV series NCIS as the replacement for Mark Harmon’s iconic character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs.
“It felt like stepping into the spotlight with the whole world watching,” Cole admitted.
He described the experience as both a challenge and an honor, recognizing the immense expectations from devoted fans who had followed Gibbs for years. Taking over such a significant role, he explained, came with pressure but also excitement about bringing his own style and interpretation to the team leader position.
Cole emphasized the importance of respecting what had been built while still introducing something new. His portrayal aimed to preserve the show’s spirit but also keep it evolving for new and returning viewers alike.
“You want to honor what came before while still making the part your own,” he noted.
The actor’s approach helped ensure a smooth transition, maintaining audience engagement as NCIS continued into its next phase with refreshed dynamics.
Gary Cole opened up about the weight of stepping into an iconic role on NCIS, balancing respect for Gibbs’ legacy with his own fresh take on leadership.