Mark Harmon is an accomplished American actor known for his versatile performances across television and film. Born on September 2, 1951, in Burbank, California, Harmon began his acting career in the 1970s.
Harmon gained widespread recognition for his role as Dr. Jack McNeil in the medical drama series "St. Elsewhere" in the 1980s, which earned him critical acclaim and a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. However, it was his portrayal of Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the long-running procedural drama "NCIS" that cemented his status as a television icon.
Mark Harmon Movies
While Mark Harmon is primarily known for his television work, he has also appeared in several notable films throughout his career. Here are a few movies featuring Harmon, along with brief descriptions:
"Summer School" (1987): In this comedy film, Harmon plays Freddy Shoop, a laid-back high school gym teacher who is forced to give up his summer vacation plans to teach a group of misfit students in a remedial English class. Chaos ensues as Shoop tries to engage his unruly students while also dealing with personal challenges.
"The Presidio" (1988): Harmon stars alongside Sean Connery in this action thriller. He portrays Lieutenant Colonel Alan Caldwell, a San Francisco police detective who teams up with Connery's character, a military police officer, to investigate a murder on the grounds of the historic Presidio army base.
"Stealing Home" (1988): This drama film follows the story of Billy Wyatt (played by Harmon), a former baseball player who reflects on his troubled past after receiving news of the death of his childhood friend and first love. The movie explores themes of love, loss, and redemption as Wyatt navigates the memories and emotions of his youth.
"The West Wing" (1995): While technically not a movie, this television movie adaptation of Aaron Sorkin's acclaimed political drama series deserves mention. Harmon guest stars as Simon Donovan, a Secret Service agent assigned to protect the President's daughter. His performance in the episode titled "17 People" earned him critical praise and an Emmy nomination.
"Freaky Friday" (2003): In this comedy film, Harmon plays the role of Ryan, the laid-back and supportive father of the protagonist, Anna (played by Lindsay Lohan). The story revolves around a magical body-swap between Anna and her mother (Jamie Lee Curtis), leading to hilarious and heartwarming situations as they learn to understand each other's lives.
These films showcase Mark Harmon's range as an actor, with performances that span from comedy to drama, and they offer a glimpse into his talent beyond his television work.
Mark Harmon TV shows
Mark Harmon has had an extensive and successful television career, with his most notable and long-running role being on the hit procedural drama series "NCIS." Here are some of the notable TV shows featuring Harmon:
"St. Elsewhere" (1983-1988): Harmon gained critical acclaim for his role as Dr. Jack McNeil in this medical drama series. The show followed the lives of the staff at Boston's St. Eligius Hospital and explored the personal and professional challenges they faced.
"Reasonable Doubts" (1991-1993): In this crime drama series, Harmon portrayed Detective Dicky Cobb, a street-smart cop who partners with a tough and by-the-book district attorney (played by Marlee Matlin) to solve cases and pursue justice.
"Chicago Hope" (1996-2000): Harmon had a recurring role as Dr. Jack McNeil in this medical drama series, which focused on the lives of the staff at Chicago's prestigious teaching hospital. Harmon's character brought a charismatic presence to the show.
"JAG" (2003): Harmon made a guest appearance as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs from "NCIS" in this legal drama series. This crossover episode served as a backdoor pilot for the spin-off series "NCIS," which Harmon would go on to star in.
"NCIS" (2003-present): Mark Harmon's most iconic role is as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs in this immensely popular crime procedural series. Harmon has been the lead actor and executive producer of "NCIS" since its inception. The show follows the Naval Criminal Investigative Service as they investigate crimes involving the United States Navy and Marine Corps. Harmon's portrayal of Gibbs has garnered praise for his stoic yet complex character.
These television shows highlight Mark Harmon's versatility as an actor, with roles ranging from medical dramas to crime procedurals. "NCIS" stands out as the most significant and long-running series in his career, solidifying his status as a beloved and respected television actor.
Mark Harmon Awards
While Mark Harmon has not won any major awards for his acting, he has received critical acclaim and nominations for his performances. Here are some notable awards and nominations Mark Harmon has received:
Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in "St. Elsewhere" in 1987.
TV Guide Award nomination for Favorite Actor in a Drama for his role in "NCIS" in 2012.
People's Choice Award nomination for Favorite TV Crime Drama Actor for his role in "NCIS" multiple times.
Prism Award nomination for Performance in a Drama Series Multi-Episode Storyline for his role in "NCIS" in 2011.
FAQs
A. Mark Harmon was born on September 2, 1951.
A. Mark Harmon's full name is Thomas Mark Harmon.
A. Mark Harmon is most famous for his role as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the television series "NCIS."