Mark Harmon’s Humble Leadership: The Secret Behind NCIS Success

Mark Harmon may have been the face of NCIS as Gibbs, but he never saw himself as the “big dog” on set. Long before the behind-the-scenes drama with Pauley Perrette made headlines, Harmon opened up about his modest role within the series.

“I’m not the big dog,” Harmon once shared with the Seattle Times. “I might be a dog. But there’s a lot of dogs.” This humble perspective was a cornerstone of his leadership style, one that prioritized teamwork over personal glory. Harmon emphasized that the show’s success was a collective effort, even as NCIS climbed to become a ratings powerhouse.

Reflecting on the early days, Harmon admitted, “We weren’t good enough to get all the attention and we weren’t bad enough to get canceled. … And the biggest thing: We shoot in Santa Clarita. Nobody from the network wanted to drive out there!” His unassuming approach to fame and leadership helped the show weather cast changes, including Perrette’s contentious departure.

Mark Harmon and Pam Dawber: A Love Story Built on a Bold Move

Harmon’s off-screen life is just as grounded. His romance with wife Pam Dawber began with a bold gesture. Instead of a traditional introduction, Harmon cold-called Dawber after getting her number, leaving a casual message about meeting for coffee. Dawber picked up mid-message, and the two went out that very night.

They married a year later, on March 21, 1987, and built a private but enduring partnership. Dawber even joined NCIS in 2021, appearing alongside Harmon in her return to TV.

Through humble leadership, career highs, and a long-lasting love, Mark Harmon’s legacy on and off the screen continues to resonate.