Mark Harmon is undeniably one of the foundations of "NCIS," a popular American action police procedural television series. Because of this, many fans were saddened when rumors about his possible departure from the show started to make rounds online. The 66-year-old star is expected to appear in the premiere episode of “NCIS” Season 15. However, reports about him leaving the eighth-longest-running primetime series after 14 years are still rife.

Will Mark retire from acting?

Avid followers of the CBS series have been wondering if Mark Harmon still appears in the forthcoming “NCIS” Season 15.

Speculations have it that the veteran actor might no longer be able to portray his role as special agent Jethro Leroy Gibbs because of his failing health. Even claims were saying that the series might face cancellation because Mark is leaving after the fourteenth installment.

In fact, a Radar Online source previously claimed that Mark already told his wife about his plans to retire from acting. "Mark talked it over with his wife, [Pam Dawber], and vowed to consider making next season his last seriously," the unidentified tipster told the news outlet. "He seems to have a lot less energy. When he isn't working, he spends much of the time holed up inside his house," the same insider went on.

However, devoted viewers of the show are confident that Mark Harmon is not ready to depart from the show yet.

The actor even shared the love story of his parents during a guest appearance on “The Talk” with Maria Bello. The husband of Pam Dawber revealed that his grandmother kept the parachute his father used during his first war injury.

Then, his granny turned the equipment into a wedding dress for his mother. CarterMatt claimed that Mark’s story could be a hint that he intends to stay on the show.

“After all, the military is in high regard in his family, and doing this show helps to honor their legacy somewhat,” the news outlet said.

Things to expect in Episode 3

Meanwhile, Cartermatt also reported that American actress Susan Blakely is going to appear in “NCIS” Season 15 Episode 3. The 69-year-old Frankfurt-born star would portray the role of Cadence Darwin, who is a close pal of Donald “Ducky” Mallard (David McCallum).

Though the news personality is a good friend to one of the lead characters, it remains to be seen if she is a friend or a foe.

For starters, Susan is no stranger to famous crime franchises as she previously appeared in shows like “Diagnosis Murder” and “Murder, She Wrote.” “NCIS” Season 15 Episode 3 is scheduled to air on Tuesday, October 10, on CBS Channel. Stay tuned for more spoilers, news, and updates!