Behind The Scenes NCIS Facts

Donald P. Bellisario’s time in the Marines gave NCIS an edge of authenticity that fans instantly connected with—so much so that someone even named a comet after Gibbs. Add in a mix of behind-the-scenes tensions, offbeat side projects, and the cast’s real-life talents, and you’ve got the secret recipe that made NCIS both charming and unforgettable.

Mark Harmon's Unexpected Casting Journey

Mark Harmon wasn't the first pick for Leroy Jethro Gibbs on NCIS. Donald P. Bellisario noticed Harmon’s talent after his role as Simon Donovan on The West Wing.

This led to Harmon appearing as Gibbs on JAG before securing the lead on NCIS, where he became a fan favorite. Harmon played Gibbs until the fourth episode of the show's nineteenth season.

Mark Harmon's Unconventional First Acting Job In A Gorilla Suit

In an amusing revelation, Mark Harmon shared that his first acting job involved wearing a gorilla suit and making "Ooh Ooh Ooh" sounds on the street.

This early and quirky role highlights the humble beginnings of the actor who would later become famous as Gibbs on NCIS.

Comet Named After Gibbs

A fan was so inspired by NCIS that they named a comet after Gibbs! This out-of-this-world tribute shows just how much Mark Harmon's character has impacted viewers.

Astronomers reportedly recognized this name, cementing Gibbs' influence beyond just our screens.

Mark Harmon's Humble Acting Beginnings

Before becoming NCIS's iconic Gibbs, Mark Harmon had a diverse career. He worked as a carpenter and even considered returning to it if acting hadn't panned out.

His varied background, which includes playing college football and working as an ad salesman, adds depth to his character's authenticity.

Mark Harmon’s Carpentry Skills Mirroring Gibbs’s Character

Mark Harmon didn’t just act like Gibbs—he basically lived it. His real passion for carpentry slipped right into the show, with those basement scenes featuring actual projects he was working on. It’s little touches like that that made Gibbs feel so real to fans.

The Origin Story of NCIS from JAG

NCIS might never have existed if it weren't for its predecessor, JAG. The show was initially introduced through a two-part episode on JAG that served as a backdoor pilot.

Who knew a naval courtroom drama would spawn one of the most successful procedurals on television?

Meaning Behind NCIS Agents' Badge Colors

The badge colors on NCIS signify different roles within the team. Agents typically have gold badges, symbolizing their field agent status, while silver badges are used for support staff.

This subtle detail helps distinguish between various roles and responsibilities on the team.

Real NCIS Agents Making Cameos

NCIS has included real-life agents in several episodes to maintain authenticity. Notable cameos include former NCIS Directors Dave Brant and Thomas Betro, who appeared in Season 3 and Season 5, respectively. These appearances add a layer of realism and a nod to the real Naval Criminal Investigative Service.

Abby Sciuto's Middle Name Revealed

Abby Sciuto's full name is Abigail Beethoven Sciuto. This fun fact about her middle name adds another quirky layer to the beloved character, reflecting her unique personality and love for classical music.

Jennifer Aniston Almost Had a Starring Role in the Show

Believe it or not, Jennifer Aniston once had her eye on NCIS. Right after Friends wrapped, she was reportedly interested in playing Caitlin Todd and even asked the producers to hold off until she finished filming. Timing wasn’t on her side, though, and the role ultimately went to Sasha Alexander.

Sasha Alexander's Exhausting Work Schedule Leading to Exit

Sasha Alexander left NCIS after two seasons due to the draining work schedule. The demanding nature of the job led to her decision to step away, opening the door for Cote de Pablo's introduction as Ziva David.

Bert the Farting Hippo's Big Impact

Remember Bert the Farting Hippo, Abby’s beloved stuffed animal? It became so popular that merchandise was created, leading to a legal tussle with CBS over the products.

Bert’s popularity also led to nightly security measures on set to prevent theft, proving that even a plush hippo can cause big headaches and require extra protection!

Cote de Pablo’s Dedication to Learning Hebrew for Her Role

Cote de Pablo, who portrayed Ziva David, went the extra mile to bring authenticity to her character. She dedicated herself to learning Hebrew, ensuring her portrayal of Ziva was as genuine as possible.

Cote de Pablo's Departure from NCIS

Cote de Pablo, beloved by fans for her role as Ziva David, decided to leave NCIS at the beginning of Season 11. Despite being offered a substantial raise by CBS to stay, she chose to depart.

The Creation of NCIS’s Signature Sound Effect By Bellisario

That famous “foof” sound in NCIS transitions? Yep, that came straight from creator Donald P. Bellisario. The quirky little audio cue became so recognizable that fans can pick it out instantly—it’s his personal stamp on the show’s style.

Donald P. Bellisario’s Influence on NCIS

Creator Donald P. Bellisario brought his military background to NCIS, infusing the show with authentic details and realism. Bellisario, a former Marine who served in the Marine Corps from 1955 through 1959, made certain the series accurately depicted military procedures and culture.

His experience added a layer of credibility that fans and critics alike appreciated.

Pauley Perrette’s Real-Life Forensic Science Background

Pauley Perrette, who played the quirky forensic scientist Abby Sciuto, wasn’t just acting. She actually has a degree in forensic science!

Her real-life knowledge of the field added an extra layer of authenticity to her character's eccentric but brilliant persona.

NCIS Filming Locations Far from D.C.

Despite being set in Washington, DC, NCIS is primarily filmed in California. This allows the production to take advantage of the state's varied landscapes while maintaining the illusion of the East Coast setting.

Original Lengthy Title Of NCIS

The show was originally titled NCIS: Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Talk about a mouthful! Thankfully, they trimmed it down to the snappier NCIS, making it way easier for fans to remember and reference.

A Pre-High School Musical Zac Efron Cameos In One Episode

Before his High School Musical breakout, Zac Efron actually popped up on NCIS. In Season 3, Episode 13 (“Deception”), he played Daniel Austin, a teenager dragged into questioning after being caught with a phone tied to a kidnapped Naval officer. It’s a fun blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cameo that most fans don’t even realize was him.

David McCallum's Reaction To Being Called 'Illya'

David McCallum, known as Dr. "Ducky" Mallard on NCIS, is also recognized for his earlier role as Illya Kuryakin on The Man from U.N.C.L.E.. While he appreciates the recognition from his Illya days, McCallum prefers to focus on his contributions to NCIS.

He has expressed that although Illya is part of his legacy, his current work on NCIS is his priority.

Tension Between Pauley Perrette and Mark Harmon

Tension between Pauley Perrette and Mark Harmon on NCIS escalated after Harmon's dog bit a crew member, leading to unrest on set. Perrette voiced her concerns when Harmon continued bringing the dog to work, resulting in the two actors filming on separate days.

Perrette later stated on social media that she would never return to NCIS, expressing fear of Harmon and sharing her happiness with a new, safer show.

Mark Harmon’s Influence on Bellisario’s Departure

Mark Harmon had a significant influence on Donald P. Bellisario's departure from NCIS. Tensions between Harmon and Bellisario over the show's management style and long working hours led CBS to side with Harmon, prioritizing his influence on the show.

This ultimately resulted in Bellisario stepping down from his active role in the series while retaining an executive producer title.

Michael Weatherly's Musical Contributions to NCIS

Michael Weatherly, who played Tony DiNozzo, didn't just act—he also contributed musically. His songs "Bitter and Blue" and "Under the Sun" were featured on the show, showcasing his musical talents alongside his acting skills.

Donald P. Bellisario’s Hidden Cameos In NCIS

Did you know NCIS creator Donald P. Bellisario liked to sneak himself into the show? In Season 2, you can catch him tying his shoe outside Abby’s lab and even popping up in a hospital scene during the episode “SWAK.” These quick cameos became little Easter eggs for sharp-eyed fans to enjoy.

Financial Success Of NCIS And Its Cast Members

NCIS has been a massive hit, not just critically, but also financially. The show's popularity has led to significant earnings for its cast, particularly Mark Harmon.

Harmon’s hefty paycheck made him one of TV’s highest-paid actors during his career, reflecting the show's gainful success.

The Unseen NCIS Spin-Off: NCIS: Red

You might know about NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans, but did you hear about NCIS: Red? This spin-off was introduced through a special two-part episode titled "Red" and "Red-2" on NCIS: Los Angeles in 2013, featuring a mobile team of agents.

Despite its interesting plot, CBS decided not to take a risk and move forward with it to protect the franchise.

Real-Life Inspirations Behind NCIS Characters

Donald P. Bellisario, who was a US Marine sergeant from 1955 to 1959, used his military background to create the characters on NCIS. His real-life experiences made the show feel more authentic and relatable.

Bellisario made the characters and stories more grounded and engaging for viewers, adding an extra layer of depth that made the series truly resonate—and that has been missing without him.

The Story Behind the Famous NCIS Caf-Pow Drink

Caf-Pow, Abby Sciuto’s iconic drink on NCIS, became a fan favorite. While it appeared to be an energy drink, it was filled with Hawaiian Punch, but later switched to unsweetened cranberry juice when Pauley Perrette cut out refined sugar.

Michael Weatherly's Rocky Road to Stardom

Before winning fans as Tony DiNozzo, Michael Weatherly had a rough road breaking into acting. With little support from his parents, he hustled by delivering pizzas and playing music just to get by. His persistence eventually paid off, turning those early struggles into the Hollywood success story fans know today.

The Extensive Preparation for Complex NCIS Scenes

Producing NCIS involves meticulous preparation, especially for its complex scenes. The crew goes all out to create detailed crime scenes and ensure protocols are portrayed realistically.

This dedication to authenticity keeps the show compelling and believable, adding a juicy layer of realism that fans love.

The Evolution of NCIS’s Opening Credits

The NCIS opening credits have evolved significantly, with major changes in the show's cast and direction. Before, Mark Harmon was the prominent feature, but after his departure in Season 19, his presence in the credits was maintained for familiarity.

By Season 20, Harmon's removal marked a new era, with Sean Murray taking the lead, and a slower theme song was used to honor the late David McCallum.

The Cultural Impact of NCIS Globally

NCIS has become a global hit, capturing audiences around the world. Its international popularity is evident in places like the UK, where the series and its spin-offs have a dedicated following.

The franchise continues to evolve with new additions like NCIS: Sydney, blending local stories with the well-loved NCIS brand.

The Challenges of Filming Underwater Scenes on NCIS

One memorable shoot involved Mark Harmon’s Gibbs trapped in a submerged car, filmed with underwater cameras and supported by trained divers for safety and precision.

In another intense scene, NCIS: Los Angeles star Chris O'Donnell faced shark-infested waters, adding real tension and complexity, with actors often performing their own stunts for authenticity.

Mark Harmon's Dual Role: Actor and Co-Producer on NCIS

Mark Harmon wasn’t just the face of Gibbs—starting in 2008, he stepped behind the camera too. From Season 6 onward, he served as a co-producer, giving him even more influence over the direction of NCIS and solidifying his role as a driving force both on and off screen.

Impact of the 2007 Writers Guild Strike on NCIS

The 2007 Writers Guild of America strike significantly impacted the production of many TV shows, including NCIS. Due to the strike, the planned run for Season 5 was reduced to only 19 episodes.

The strike, which lasted from November 2007 to February 2008, disrupted the normal flow of television production, leading to shorter seasons and delayed airings for many shows.

Sean Murray's Personal Life and NCIS Connections

All NCIS fans know Sean Murray as Tim McGee, but there's more to him than his screen persona. His father is retired Navy Captain Craig Harland Murray, and his mother, Vivienne Lee, married NCIS creator Donald P. Bellisario in 1998, making Bellisario Sean’s stepfather.

Bellisario's Encounter With Lee Harvey Oswald

Donald P. Bellisario, creator of NCIS, served in the Marines and once met Lee Harvey Oswald. Bellisario's military experiences heavily influenced his shows, and he even based an episode of Quantum Leap on Oswald.

He vividly remembered a heated debate on communism with Oswald and was shocked to later see him on TV as JFK's assassin.

Family Members Play Younger Versions in NCIS

NCIS creators pay great attention to detail, especially in flashbacks. To make younger versions of characters look authentic, they use family members of the main actors. For example, young Gibbs is played by Mark Harmon's son, Sean Harmon. Troian Bellisario, daughter of creator Don Bellisario, plays Sarah McGee, and his son Michael Bellisario plays Charles "Chip" Sterling.

Behind The Scenes NCIS Facts

Behind The Scenes NCIS Facts