A Look Back at Jethro Gibbs' Growth into His NCIS Journey

From Rule-Breaker to Team Leader: The Evolution of Leroy Jethro Gibbs in NCIS

Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon), the stoic and captivating lead of NCIS, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the course of the show's impressive 19 seasons. While still a master investigator, Gibbs' personal rules and outlook have significantly evolved.

Shifting Boundaries: The Phone Rule

One of Gibbs' defining traits in the early seasons was his constant accessibility. He famously adhered to a "never be unreachable" policy. However, as the series progressed, we saw a more burdened Gibbs. He began disregarding his phone, especially during undercover operations or in moments of emotional turmoil. This defiance reached a peak when he deliberately sabotaged his communication devices to avoid contact with his ex-wife.

Evolving Suspect Interactions

Season 1 Gibbs displayed a ruthless approach towards suspects, withholding trust and maintaining constant surveillance. This hardened exterior softened in later seasons. Notably, in "Ships in the Night" (Season 8) and "Caught On Tape" (Season 2), he allowed suspects, later proven innocent, unsupervised interactions. This shift could be attributed to the emotional toll of his personal life, particularly the betrayal by his wife and friend.

Finding Common Ground: The Lawyer Conundrum

Gibbs' initial disdain for lawyers was well-documented in his infamous "Personal Rule Number 13." However, this prejudice waned. Season 7's "Mother's Day" saw him securing legal representation for his former mother-in-law, a suspect in a murder investigation. Perhaps facing his own mortality and the complexities of family dynamics led him to acknowledge the value of legal counsel.

Love and Loss: The Workplace Romance Rule

Early on, Gibbs established a "no dating co-workers" policy, as seen in "Enigma" (Season 1). This rule, however, proved temporary as he embarked on a passionate, albeit doomed, relationship with NCIS colleague Jenny Shepard. Their international assignments provided a backdrop for their romance, but ultimately, career ambitions and unresolved personal issues led to their separation.

These are just a few examples of how Gibbs has grown and adapted throughout NCIS. From his initial rigidity to a more nuanced understanding of trust and vulnerability, Gibbs' transformation reflects the impact of personal loss, professional challenges, and the enduring bonds he forms with his team.