When NCIS initially aired back in 2003, few people anticipated it to become one of the longest-running and most successful crime series on TV. As time went on, the cast evolved, some characters disappeared and others were added, and viewers saw their favorite stars grow up on and off-screen. Twenty years ago and Many of the original cast remain intimately involved in the show’s legacy.

For over 20 years, the face of *NCIS* was actor Mark Harmon, who played Leroy Jethro Gibbs. He’s mostly drifted away from the series in recent years, but fans still see him as the heart of the brand. Now, Harmon lives a quieter life in the public eye, but remains beloved as one of TV’s most famous crime drama actors.

Michael Weatherly, who plays Tony DiNozzo, has changed a lot from the early seasons. He continued busy in entertainment starring in numerous productions after *NCIS*. Meanwhile, fans still enjoy Pauley Perrette as Abby Sciuto, one of the most iconic characters in the show’s history, because to her quirky style and bubbly demeanor.

Other recognized figures like Sean Murray, Cote de Pablo and David McCallum also went through some dramatic transformations during the years. Some went into performing, some concentrated on their personal lives and some, regrettably, died. But one thing is clear, the cast of *NCIS* helped make one of television’s most iconic crime programs, and viewers still adore seeing what their favorite performers look like today in 2026.