**For nearly two decades, the name Leroy Jethro Gibbs became synonymous with unwavering justice, a gruff exterior hiding a deeply moral core, and an uncanny ability to solve the most complex crimes. As the original protagonist and the steadfast leader of the Major Case Response Team (MCRT) for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), Gibbs, masterfully portrayed by Mark Harmon, carved out an indelible mark on television history. His character wasn't just a special agent; he was the anchor of a globally beloved series, a figure whose quiet strength and cryptic "rules" resonated with millions.** Even after his departure from the team in season 19, the legacy of Gibbs, Navy CIS, continues to captivate audiences. His influence permeates every aspect of the show, from the team dynamics he shaped to the very ethos of justice he upheld. This article delves into the multifaceted character of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, exploring his origins, his pivotal role within NCIS, the enduring impact of his famous rules, and the circumstances surrounding his much-discussed exit, ensuring a comprehensive look at one of television's most iconic figures. **Table of Contents** * [Who is Leroy Jethro Gibbs? A Character Profile](#who-is-leroy-jethro-gibbs-a-character-profile) * [The Man Behind the Badge: Gibbs's Biography](#the-man-behind-the-badge-gibbs's-biography) * [Personal Data: Leroy Jethro Gibbs at a Glance](#personal-data-leroy-jethro-gibbs-at-a-glance) * [From Marine to Special Agent: Gibbs's Role in NCIS](#from-marine-to-special-agent-gibbs's-role-in-ncis) * [The Unspoken Code: Gibbs's Rules](#the-unspoken-code-gibbs's-rules) * [The Core Team: Gibbs and His MCRT](#the-core-team-gibbs-and-his-mcrt) * [The End of an Era: Gibbs's Departure from NCIS](#the-end-of-an-era-gibbs's-departure-from-ncis) * [The Voice of Gibbs: International Portrayals](#the-voice-of-gibbs-international-portrayals) * [NCIS: A Global Phenomenon](#ncis-a-global-phenomenon) * [Conclusion: The Enduring Echo of Gibbs, Navy CIS](#conclusion-the-enduring-echo-of-gibbs-navy-cis) --- ## Who is Leroy Jethro Gibbs? A Character Profile Leroy Jethro Gibbs is more than just a fictional character; he is an institution within the realm of crime dramas. Born on November 21, 1954, Gibbs embodies the quintessential stoic hero, a man of few words but profound actions. His character is the original protagonist of the CBS TV series *NCIS*, a show that has captivated audiences worldwide for two decades. The portrayal by Mark Harmon in the original series is iconic, defining the character's gruff charm and unwavering moral compass. More recently, Austin Stowell has taken on the mantle in the prequel series *NCIS: Origins*, offering a glimpse into Gibbs's formative years and the experiences that shaped the man we know. ### The Man Behind the Badge: Gibbs's Biography Born and raised in the small town of Stillwater, Pennsylvania, located in the coal region, Leroy Jethro Gibbs's early life was rooted in a humble, working-class environment. He was the only child of Jackson Gibbs, a U.S. Army Air Force veteran who ran a grocery store, and Ann Gibbs, a civilian housewife. His unique first two names were given in honor of Leroy Jethro "LJ" Moore, his father Jackson's best friend and business partner, a testament to the strong bonds that shaped his family's history. Before his distinguished career with NCIS, Gibbs served with honor in the U.S. Marine Corps as a scout sniper. This military background profoundly influenced his discipline, his tactical acumen, and his unyielding sense of duty. It also provided him with the skills that would later make him an exceptional special agent. However, Gibbs's life was also marked by profound tragedy. He was married to Shannon Fielding Gibbs, and together they had a daughter, Kelly Gibbs. Kelly, who shared a close bond with her father, learning fishing and horseback riding from him, and her mother Shannon, were tragically murdered on April 28, 1993, by a drug dealer named Pedro Hernandez. This devastating loss irrevocably altered Gibbs, fueling his dedication to justice and leaving a deep emotional scar. His relationship with his father, Jackson, also became strained after Jackson brought his beloved to Shannon and Kelly's funeral, an act Leroy Jethro could not forgive at the time. They saw each other rarely, a testament to the lingering pain, until Jackson Gibbs's death in the eleventh season episode "Jackson." These personal losses and complex family dynamics forged the stoic, fiercely protective, and often solitary figure that fans came to know and admire. ### Personal Data: Leroy Jethro Gibbs at a Glance | Attribute | Detail
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