CBS’ hit long-running procedural NCIS is reportedly eyeing Gary Cole for a major role in season 19. Centering on the special agents who work cases centering on members of the United States Navy, NCIS has stood among CBS’ top performers for much of its lengthy run. The series first premiered in 2003 and stars Mark Harmon as lead agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Though NCIS has seen its fair share of cast changes over the years, the current crew includes Sean Murray, Wilmer Valderrama, Brian Dietzen, Diona Reasonover, Rocky Carroll, and David McCallum.
Like many shows, NCIS‘ most recent season suffered some difficulties due to the coronavirus pandemic. After premiering much later in the fall, season 18 saw a shorter episode count than usual. There was some debate over whether NCIS would be renewed for season 19, with much attention being paid to whether Harmon would agree to return for another year. After Harmon and CBS worked out a deal, NCIS season 19 was officially greenlit in April. This came as spin-off NCIS: Los Angeles got renewed for season 13, and newcomer NCIS: Hawaii was picked up for a freshman run.
According to Variety, NCIS is currently in talks to bring Gary Cole on board for a major role in season 19. Details about said role are being kept under wraps at the present time. Additionally, sources report Cole might not be the only new person to join NCIS‘ main cast. This comes as the level of Harmon’s involvement with season 19 remains up in the air, though he will be back in some capacity.
Aside from Cole, another major season 19 casting has already been revealed. Katrina Law (Nyssa al Ghul in the Arrowverse) joined NCIS at the end of season 18 with the potential to become a series regular in the future. These tentative additions to the series come after stars Maria Bello and Emily Wickersham exited earlier this year, so there are some spaces to fill. Right now, though, it remains to be seen if either Cole or Law will stake major claims on NCIS season 19.
Most recently, Cole has starred on Mixed-ish and Paramount+’s The Good Fight. He would certainly be an excellent addition to the NCIS team, even if it just ends up being for a recurring role. NCIS has built up an impressive number of guest stars over the years, from Drew Carey to Christopher Lloyd. Cole could be the next one to join the list. Should Harmon take on a reduced role in season 19, Cole could perhaps help fill the void. Major changes are headed to NCIS, and only time will tell how they all shake out.
NCIS season 19 premieres this fall on CBS.
