Mark Harmon’s Powerful Advice to NCIS: Origins Star Will Surprise You

NCIS: Origins star Caleb Foote recently opened up about the valuable advice he received from franchise icon Mark Harmon. As the narrator and executive producer of the NCIS prequel, Harmon remains deeply involved in the story, which follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs (played by Austin Stowell) in the early 1990s as he builds his career at NCIS.

Foote plays Special Agent Bernard “Randy” Randolf — a character often labeled the “golden boy,” but one who’s far from perfect. While capable and confident, Randy is still growing into his role and finding his place in the team. As NCIS: Origins heads into season 2, the focus will continue to explore not just Gibbs’ journey, but also the key individuals who shaped him along the way.

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, Foote shared that Harmon offered one simple but powerful piece of advice:

“He’s done it all. He’s the godfather of NCIS. Some really big advice that Mark Harmon had was just like, ‘Trust who you are.’”

That encouragement has clearly stuck with Foote, especially as his character navigates complex dynamics with Gibbs. Although Randy is brought in to guide and assist Gibbs, their relationship doesn’t follow the typical rookie-mentor path. In one memorable moment, Randy awkwardly tries to set Gibbs up on a date — a misstep that highlights his own learning curve and the show’s fresh take on familiar roles.