Over its 21 seasons, NCIS has captivated audiences worldwide, and despite the cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i, the main show’s legacy continues with gusto. Mark Harmon’s portrayal of Agent Gibbs remains central to its enduring charm, even after his departure from the show.
An Unusual Habit with a Deeper Meaning
Agent Gibbs stands out for his unique, almost monastic lifestyle. He avoids modern technology and even builds boats in his basement without electric tools. However, one of Gibbs’ most peculiar quirks is that he never locks his front door. This seemingly harmless habit actually conceals a profoundly heartbreaking backstory.
The Heartbreaking Revelation
During an episode of the Off Duty: An NCIS Rewatch podcast hosted by Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo, the reason behind this quirk was revealed. According to de Pablo, Gibbs leaves his door unlocked because he has already lost what was most important to him, so he actually doesn’t care.
A Vicious Cycle of Loss
The tragedy traces back to the murder of Gibbs’ first wife and daughter. This devastating loss propelled Gibbs into a life driven by vengeance, culminating in him killing their murderer. It becomes evident throughout the series that Gibbs has never fully overcome this trauma, which profoundly shapes his lifestyle and habits.
If anyone did break into Gibbs’ house, they’d find little of value to steal. Gibbs owns nothing more than the necessities – an extension of the same devastating reason why he leaves his door unlocked.
An Ambiguous Truth
The exact source of Cote de Pablo’s reveal is uncertain since the show never explicitly explained this behavior. Some suggest it could be an idea developed by the writers while crafting Gibbs’ character. Another interpretation by Michael Weatherly posits that Gibbs keeps the door open in case his wife and daughter ever come back – a more hopeful yet equally poignant take on the matter.
A Look Back with NCIS Origins
As we anticipate the premiere of NCIS: Origins, which stars Austin Stowell as young Gibbs, we might gain further insights into how these early experiences shaped the man we came to know. The new spinoff promises to explore these nuances deeply.
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