Movies

Mark Harmon’s 10 Best Movies And TV Shows

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Harmon didn’t come from a family associated with show business, instead he pursued football throughout college. This athletic background could be the reason why many of his top movies and TV shows feature him in roles that require physicality, such as law enforcement or medical professionals. Most notably, a significant portion of Harmon’s most recognized projects have him portraying characters within the law enforcement sector or the medical field.

Initially finding success in TV comedies and ads during the 1970s, Harmon’s breakthrough role today is on NCIS. Despite having several feature films under his belt, he has primarily focused on television throughout his career – not only acting but also writing, directing, and producing. His exceptional performances in both movies and TV shows show that Harmon brings a steady influence to many of his projects.

10. Laverne And Shirley (1976)

Mark Harmon As Victor

In today’s perspective, Mark Harmon’s part in “Laverne and Shirley” might not seem like a standout role. However, it’s common for up-and-coming actors to appear as guests on TV shows, often with minimal dialogue and brief screen time. Surprisingly, despite these limitations, Harmon managed to hold his own against the humorous powerhouses that are the leading ladies.

In the episode “Dating Slump,” Laverne (Penny Marshall) disguises her intention of finding a date for Shirley (Cindy Williams) by placing an ad in the newspaper selling a car. The ad subtly asks potential buyers to bring flowers to the seller instead, and Harmon shows up as someone interested in viewing the vehicle.

In brief, this appearance was impressive due to being one of the first instances where Harmon showcased his witty humor style, which is reminiscent of a dry comedian, and his aptitude for playing the more subdued role against the boisterous ones, a skill he has frequently utilized throughout his career.

9. Freaky Friday (2003)

Mark Harmon As Ryan

Mark Harmon doesn’t play the lead role in “Freaky Friday”. Instead, it’s Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis who shine in this film. Despite this, “Freaky Friday” is considered one of Harmon’s finest works. This is due to two reasons: firstly, the remake is often more fondly remembered than the original; secondly, Harmon delivers a convincing performance as a down-to-earth and authentic character in a zany family comedy.

In this film, Curtis and Lohan portray a mother-daughter duo who have significant disagreements on various matters. An unexpected turn of events occurs when their characters exchange bodies, with Lindsay’s character preparing for an important band performance at the time. The hilarious chaos that unfolds as they navigate each other’s lives is simply flawless.

Harmon, much like Laverne and Shirley showed, plays the role of the straight-man exceptionally well during their comedic escapades. He manages to maintain a sense of realism amidst the chaos, while Curtis and Lohan keep the audience entertained (and possibly moved as they reconnect).

8. For All Time (2000)

Mark Harmon As Charles Lattimer

Mark Harmon has acted in both theater productions and TV films, and “For All Time” is an example of the latter. This movie, which combines elements of romance and sci-fi, might not be as well-known as some of his other works.

As a cinema enthusiast, I can’t help but share that this film is reminiscent of a timeless Twilight Zone tale penned by Rod Serling, titled “A Stop At Willoughby.” In this narrative, I embody a character whose existence is rather routine and unremarkable. However, the monotony of my life is abruptly disrupted when I stumble upon a temporal gateway during a train journey. This enigmatic passage allows me to traverse not just space, but time itself, offering glimpses into both contemporary and late 19th-century life. The allure of these two distinct realities leaves me in a state of internal conflict, torn between the familiarity of my past and the allure of an alternate present.

In this film, Harmon doesn’t merely play the role of a father figure or team leader; instead, he takes center stage as the main character. Although it wasn’t produced with the same financial resources that a theater release might have had back then, it remains an entertaining exploration of the time travel genre and one of Harmon’s finest performances.

7. The West Wing (2002)

Mark Harmon As Agent Simon Donovan

During Harmon’s career as it progressed into the 1980s and ’90s, he landed numerous series regular positions. However, starting from the early 2000s, he shifted to smaller character arcs in shows such as The West Wing. Despite appearing in just four episodes of this political drama, one of his most recognized roles was earned in this series.

The series, titled “The West Wing“, primarily focuses on the team working at the White House throughout its duration. It offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the high-speed lifestyle in politics and the accompanying drama. In this show, Harmon portrayed a Secret Service Agent responsible for a special protection detail, specifically for White House Press Secretary CJ Cregg (Allison Janney). This role allowed Harmon to exhibit a more flirtatious side than some of his current roles might suggest, yet it also provided him with an opportunity to play an authoritative figure, a skill he has since mastered.

It was indeed his role in “The West Wing” that helped Harmon secure a spot in the initial episode of “NCIS”. Charles Johnson, one of the show’s executive producers, believes his performance in “The West Wing” significantly influenced the creative team in choosing him to play Gibbs. Additionally, he received an Emmy nomination for his performance. (Source: USA Today)

6. St. Elsewhere (1983-1986)

Mark Harmon As Dr. Robert Caldwell

Mark Harmon starred in three consecutive seasons during the run of the 1980s medical drama, “St. Elsewhere,” which laid the groundwork for series such as “ER” and “Grey’s Anatomy.

The show centered around a team of doctors at a training facility, assisting junior doctors in shaping their careers ahead. Known for its raw depiction of medical practices within an underprivileged hospital, it stood out from many polished hospital-themed series often seen on television.

In the second season, Bobby, also known as Dr. Caldwell by Harmon, makes his appearance. Unlike Harmon’s usual composed characters in contemporary roles, Bobby is quite impulsive. His storylines extend beyond his medical duties, earning him a heartthrob status among viewers. Interestingly, one of Harmon’s character arcs was groundbreaking, as the character contracted HIV after a sexual encounter – a topic not commonly explored on TV in the 1980s.

5. Reasonable Doubts (1991-1993)

Mark Harmon As Detective Dicky Cobb

Before Harmon became known as Leroy Jethro Gibbs on NCIS, he had previously portrayed several law enforcement roles. One such role was a detective on the short-lived television show titled Reasonable Doubts.

Reasonable Doubts isn’t solely about the investigation; it delves into the dynamic between an Assistant District Attorney and the detective who works on her cases due to their contrasting natures. Initially assigned together because of his ability to use American Sign Language and her being a deaf woman (portrayed by Marlee Matlin), she tends to be more understanding towards suspects, while he is blunt and often exasperated by her compassion during their investigations.

The interaction between Matlin and Harmon was quite fascinating, as they complemented each other superbly. Their performances in the crime drama were distinctively refreshing, unfortunately, the show didn’t continue beyond its second season.

4. Chicago Hope (1994-2000)

Mark Harmon As Dr. Jack McNeil

If Reasonable Doubts hadn’t been taken off the air, it seems logical that Mark Harmon wouldn’t have transitioned to Chicago Hope, his subsequent significant TV role. After joining the show midway through its production, he starred on the medical drama for six years.

The show centers around the team of doctors, employees, and lawyers at a private charitable hospital in Chicago. Unlike many other medical dramas, it primarily explores the conflicts that arise between the administrative staff and the medical practitioners within the show’s narrative. This conflict forms a significant aspect of the series’ structure.

In the TV series, Harmon’s character was heavily involved in emotional scenes, which seemed particularly intense given his role as an orthopedic surgeon. Throughout the show, he had multiple romantic entanglements, physical fights, and was even wounded by a gunshot. This experience on the show prepared him well for the demanding nature of a project like NCIS, while also demonstrating his versatility in dramatic performances.

3. The Deliberate Stranger (1986)

Mark Harmon As Ted Bundy

After an actor climbs the ladder of success over a ten-year span, starting from bit parts and eventually reaching leading roles, it feels natural for them to challenge themselves even more by agreeing to portray a notorious serial killer. This is exactly what Harmon did when he took on the role of Ted Bundy.

In a miniseries modeled after the book written by Seattle Times reporter Richard W. Larsen, Harmon portrayed Bundy. Interestingly, Larsen had interacted with Bundy during his political campaign days, years before Bundy was even suspected of being a murderer. Later on, when Bundy’s heinous crimes were unveiled, Larsen also covered the story, giving him an unusual advantage as a writer with extensive knowledge about the man.

Through numerous movies and TV series that tackle real-life crime stories, this project stands out as one of Harmon’s finest because it showcases him in a completely new light. Over the years, audiences have come to know Harmon as a hero. However, when he portrays the very darkness he often opposes in his roles, it demonstrates the depth and versatility of his acting skills. In fact, Harmon received a nomination for a Golden Globe for his performance.

2. Summer School (1987)

Mark Harmon As Freddy Shoop

A significant portion of Harmon’s finest films and television shows are built around his serious persona. This is why the movie Summer School stands out as a particularly precious gem among his works. Not only is it one of his top movies, but it also showcases one of his best comedic performances.

As a movie enthusiast, I find myself immersed in a story where I step into the shoes of a laid-back gym teacher. During the scorching summer months, I’m unexpectedly tasked with teaching English to an unmotivated bunch who seem to mirror my own lethargy, making the season even more arduous. However, fortune favors me when Kirstie Alley, another educator for the term, enters the scene, offering a helping hand and sparking a romantic interest in the process.

As a movie connoisseur, I’d say that “Summer School” provides an unusual, laid-back portrayal of Mark Harmon, a stark contrast to his typically polished and disciplined roles. It’s refreshing to witness Harmon let loose as the carefree Freddy Shoop, a departure that adds an enjoyable twist to the movie experience.

1. NCIS (2003-2021)

Mark Harmon As Leroy Jethro Gibbs

The TV series, known as NCIS, has been a staple in television crime dramas for quite some time now, holding one of the longest-running positions. What sets it apart is that each episode’s case revolves around crimes connected to the military. Originating from the military legal drama JAG, this show has seen numerous cast changes during its over two decades on air, but Harmon was among the most enduring actors.

From the very first episode, Harmon took on the role of Agent Gibbs, heading a naval investigative team within the Criminal Investigative Service. The show portrays them as the navy’s equivalent of detectives, dealing with weekly cases involving murders, robberies, and thwarting terrorist activities. Additionally, the series offers extended storylines for each season, allowing viewers to become more familiar with the numerous characters in the cast.

On the popular TV series, Harmon’s character, Gibbs, stands out as the straight-man amidst a cast of more youthful and comedic actors. He provides the heavy, serious tone that anchors the show, whether he is actively involved in interrogations or observing from behind the glass. A significant portion of the show’s longevity for 19 seasons can be attributed to Harmon’s consistent and grounded performance.

Though NCIS might not be Mark Harmon’s most critically lauded work, it is his best television show.

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2025-04-28 01:09

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