The "NCIS" cast and crew was stunned in Sept. 2016 when creator Gary Glasberg (at right, in glasses) died in his sleep at only 50 years old. “Mark was shaken to his core by Gary’s untimely death,” said an "NCIS" insider. “Not long after, Mark talked it over with his wife
Pam [Dawber] and vowed to seriously consider making the next season his last!” Meanwhile, even his fans had noted the change in Harmon's appearance — turning to social media with statements like "Take some time off!" and "Gibbs needs a vacation!"