Mark Harmon’s Age In 2025: 5 Surprising Facts About The NCIS Legend's Life And Career

Mark Harmon, the television icon best known for his 18-season run as NCIS Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, remains one of Hollywood’s most private and enduring stars. As of the current date, December 10, 2025, the celebrated actor is 74 years old. His birthday, September 2, 1951, marks him as a Virgo, a sign known for its meticulous and hardworking nature—traits that perfectly mirror the discipline he brought to his iconic role and his earlier career as a college football quarterback. His longevity and continued relevance in the entertainment industry, even after stepping away from the main cast of *NCIS*, are a testament to his talent and selective approach to his career.

The curiosity surrounding "how old is Mark Harmon" stems not just from his enduring good looks, but from his constant presence in the public eye through new projects, including a major return to the *NCIS* universe in late 2025. This article dives into the latest updates on his life, his remarkable biography, and the surprising new roles he has taken on.

Thomas Mark Harmon: A Complete Biography and Profile

Thomas Mark Harmon, a former college football star turned Emmy-nominated actor, has built a career defined by strong, stoic, and dependable characters. His personal life, particularly his long marriage to actress Pam Dawber, is just as noteworthy as his professional success. Below is a detailed look at the man behind the legendary NCIS agent.

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• Full Name: Thomas Mark Harmon
• Date of Birth: September 2, 1951
• Current Age (Dec 2025): 74 years old
• Birthplace: Burbank, California, U.S.
• Height: 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
• Spouse: Pam Dawber (married 1987)
• Children: Sean Harmon (born 1988), Ty Christian Harmon (born 1992)
• Parents: Tom Harmon (Heisman Trophy winner, broadcaster) and Elyse Knox (actress, fashion designer)
• Education: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – B.A. in Communications (1974)
• Notable Roles: Leroy Jethro Gibbs (*NCIS*), Dr. Robert Caldwell (*St. Elsewhere*), Jack McNamara (*Flamingo Road*), Agent Simon Donovan (*The West Wing*).

The Football Star Who Became a TV Icon

Before his acting career took off, Mark Harmon was a standout athlete. He was the starting quarterback for the UCLA Bruins for two seasons in the early 1970s, a path that seemed destined for professional sports. However, he chose a different route, transitioning into acting. His early roles in shows like *St. Elsewhere* and *Flamingo Road* established him as a television heartthrob, a title he famously downplayed. His breakthrough in the crime procedural genre came with *Reasonable Doubts*, paving the way for his career-defining role as Gibbs on *NCIS* in 2003, a character he played for 18 seasons, becoming one of the highest-paid actors on television.

Mark Harmon’s Life and Career in 2025: Beyond NCIS

While his official departure from the main cast of *NCIS* in 2021 marked the end of an era, Mark Harmon's involvement with the franchise and his personal life have kept him very much in the spotlight in 2025. He continues to be a powerful force behind the scenes and has embraced significant new personal roles.

1. The Highly Anticipated On-Screen Return in November 2025

The biggest news for fans in 2025 was Mark Harmon’s rare return to the screen. He reprised his iconic role as Leroy Jethro Gibbs for an on-screen cameo in the major *NCIS* and *NCIS: Origins* crossover event that aired on November 11, 2025. This appearance was highly anticipated, as it was one of the few times he has been seen in character since his initial exit. The cameo served to bridge the gap between the original series and the prequel, which tells the story of a young Gibbs in 1991.

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2. Executive Producer and Narrator of NCIS: Origins

Even though he is 74, Harmon's commitment to the *NCIS* universe is unwavering, but it has shifted from acting to producing. He serves as an Executive Producer and the narrator for the prequel series, *NCIS: Origins*. This role allows him to guide the narrative and tone of the show, ensuring the character of Gibbs, now played by Austin Stowell, remains true to the legend he created. This behind-the-scenes work is a major focus of his career in 2025 and 2026, solidifying his legacy as more than just an actor but a key creative force.

3. A First-Time Grandfather in 2025

Perhaps the most significant and heartwarming update to Mark Harmon’s life in 2025 is his new role as a grandfather. His son, Sean Harmon, and his wife welcomed their first child earlier in the year, making Mark and Pam Dawber first-time grandparents. This major life event has been celebrated by fans and is a clear indication of the focus on family that the famously private actor has always prioritized.

4. Becoming an Author: A New Literary Project

In a surprising career move, Mark Harmon is currently writing a book. The non-fiction work is set to delve into the history and predecessors of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), the real-life agency that inspired the long-running television show. This project further demonstrates his deep, long-standing interest in the subject matter and offers fans a new way to connect with the world of Gibbs, this time through a literary lens.

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5. The Legacy of His Sons: Continuing the Family Tradition

Mark Harmon’s two sons, Sean Harmon and Ty Christian Harmon, have both followed their parents into the entertainment industry, continuing the family's Hollywood legacy. Sean Harmon, the older son, is an actor, director, and stunt coordinator who has famously played a younger version of his father's character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs, in flashback episodes of *NCIS*. Ty Christian Harmon is also involved in the industry, working as an actor and screenwriter. Their career paths show a clear influence from their father's work ethic and dedication to the craft.

Mark Harmon’s Enduring Appeal and Future Outlook

At 74, Mark Harmon’s career is less about chasing blockbuster roles and more about meaningful, selective engagement. His recent film appearances include *The Highwaymen* (2019) and *Father Stu* (2022), showcasing his preference for powerful, character-driven projects. His decision to focus on producing and narrating *NCIS: Origins* and writing a book ensures his influence on the television landscape remains profound.

The question of "how old is Mark Harmon" is easily answered, but the real story is how he has masterfully navigated his career across five decades—from football star to television heartthrob, to a disciplined, iconic lead, and now to a respected executive producer and author. His enduring appeal lies in his ability to maintain a strong sense of privacy while delivering consistently compelling performances, making him a true Hollywood legend whose story is still being written.