Mark Harmon is officially returning to NCIS: Origins for Season 3, giving longtime fans another reason to look forward to the prequel’s return this fall. While viewers already know Harmon will continue narrating the story of a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, he is also expected to appear on screen once again, strengthening his connection to the expanding NCIS universe.
As production continues, a newly released behind the scenes image has offered another glimpse at what fans can expect from the upcoming season. The set features a recreated Blockbuster Video storefront, an instantly recognizable symbol of the early 1990s that reinforces the period setting in which Gibbs’ story unfolds. Since NCIS: Origins takes place in 1991, the nostalgic location fits naturally into the world the series is building.
The attention to detail has become one of the show’s biggest strengths. From classic storefronts and vintage vehicles to authentic costumes and everyday cultural references, NCIS: Origins has worked to recreate the era as accurately as possible. These details help immerse viewers in the world that shaped Gibbs long before he became the legendary team leader audiences came to know on NCIS.
The Blockbuster location is especially meaningful because it reflects a time when video rental stores were a central part of American life. For many fans who grew up during that era, the familiar storefront instantly brings back memories of weekend movie nights and family traditions. Incorporating locations like this allows NCIS: Origins to feel both historically authentic and emotionally familiar.
Mark Harmon’s involvement remains one of the series’ biggest attractions. After leading NCIS for 19 seasons as Leroy Jethro Gibbs, his return to the franchise continues to generate excitement among longtime viewers. Beyond narrating the prequel, his on screen appearances provide an important bridge between the original series and the younger version of Gibbs portrayed by Austin Stowell, helping connect the two generations of the character.
Although CBS has not revealed many story details for the new season, the latest production update suggests that NCIS: Origins will continue balancing compelling storytelling with carefully recreated 1990s settings. With Mark Harmon once again involved and the series continuing to celebrate the era that shaped Gibbs’ early career, Season 3 is already giving fans plenty of reasons to be excited ahead of its fall premiere.