How old is Mark Harmon?

Mark Harmon is 71 years old as of June 2023.

Mark Harmon is an American actor best known for his role as Leroy Jethro Gibbs on the TV series "NCIS." Harmon began his career in the 1970s, appearing in various television shows and films. He gained widespread recognition for his role in "St. Elsewhere" and later starred in movies like "Summer School" and "The Presidio." Since 2003, he has been the lead actor in "NCIS," which has become one of the most successful TV shows in history. Harmon has received numerous awards for his performances and is regarded as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Mark Harmon's Early Life

Mark Harmon, whose full name is Thomas Mark Harmon, was born on September 2, 1951, in Burbank, California, making him a native of the United States. He was born into a family with a rich acting heritage. His father, Tom Harmon, was a renowned football player turned sports broadcaster, and his mother, Elyse Knox, was an actress and a fashion designer.

Growing up, Harmon displayed a passion for both sports and acting. He excelled in football and earned a scholarship to play at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he became the starting quarterback. However, his acting aspirations remained strong, and he pursued a career in both sports and entertainment during his time at UCLA.

After graduating from UCLA with a degree in communications, Harmon briefly played professional football in the National Football League (NFL) for the Los Angeles Rams. However, injuries hindered his football career, prompting him to shift his focus entirely to acting. With his athletic build and natural talent, he soon found success in the entertainment industry, carving a path that would lead him to become one of the most recognizable actors on television.

Mark Harmon's Career

Mark Harmon's career spans over several decades and encompasses a wide range of roles in both film and television. After making his acting debut in the 1970s, he appeared in various television shows and movies, gradually establishing himself as a versatile actor.

In the early 1980s, Harmon gained critical acclaim for his portrayal of Dr. Robert Caldwell in the medical drama series "St. Elsewhere." This role earned him an Emmy nomination and increased his visibility in the industry. He continued to make appearances in popular shows like "Moonlighting" and "The West Wing," showcasing his talent and versatility.

However, it was his portrayal of Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the long-running crime procedural series "NCIS" that propelled Harmon to even greater fame. Since the show's premiere in 2003, he has been the lead actor, captivating audiences with his portrayal of the stoic and dedicated investigator. "NCIS" became a massive hit and one of the most-watched television series, solidifying Harmon's status as a household name.

Outside of acting, Harmon has also produced and directed episodes of "NCIS," further showcasing his talent and involvement in the production process. His contributions to the entertainment industry have made him a beloved figure and a respected veteran actor.

Mark Harmon's Awards

Mark Harmon has received several awards and nominations throughout his career in recognition of his talent and contributions to the entertainment industry. Here are some of the notable awards and honors he has received:

Primetime Emmy Awards:

• Nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for "St. Elsewhere" (1987).

People's Choice Awards:

• Won Favorite Television Drama Actor for "NCIS" (2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021).

• Won Favorite Crime Drama TV Actor for "NCIS" (2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021).

TV Guide Awards:

• Won Favorite Actor in a Drama for "NCIS" (2009).

• Won Favorite Actor in a Drama for "NCIS" (2011).

Prism Awards:

• Won Performance in a Drama Episode for "NCIS" (2007).

• Won Male Performance in a Drama Series Multi-Episode Storyline for "NCIS" (2012).

Hollywood Walk of Fame:

• Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the television industry (2012).

Golden Boot Awards:

• Received the Golden Boot Award for his contributions to the western genre (2013).

These are just a few examples of the recognition Mark Harmon has received for his work. His talent and dedication have made him a beloved actor and a respected figure in the entertainment world.