The veteran star is most celebrated for her role as the female lead in the sitcom “Mork & Mindy” (1978), and her career has remained strong ever since, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s.
The actress and Robin Williams on the set of Mork & Mindy,” 1978 | Source: Getty Images
Her marriage to a former Sexiest Man Alive honoree, which blossomed from a quiet romance, has also thrived through the years.
The actress pictured on January 1, 1978, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
The couple’s story began in 1986, with a memorable first encounter that her husband fondly recounted in an interview. He explained that, while a mutual friend initially suggested a group date, he chose a bolder route. “I said, ‘Can I just call? Can I get a number and just cold call?’ And so I did,” he shared.
The actor attends the 24th Annual International Broadcasting Awards on March 20, 1984 | Source: Getty Images
After dialing her number, he reached an answering machine and began leaving a message, saying, “We don’t have to all go out. We could get a cup of coffee or something.” As he spoke, she happened to be monitoring the call and picked up, leading them to go out that very night.
The couple at the CBS TV Affiliates Party on May 20, 1987, in Century City, California. | Source: Getty Images
The couple’s first date came soon after the actress’s future spouse was named People’s Sexiest Man Alive. In the magazine interview, he confessed that, although he wasn’t seeking a relationship, he hoped for a marriage that would defy Hollywood’s reputation.
The actor on the set of the TV movie “Prince of Bel Air,” 1986 | Source: Getty Images
“When I marry, I want it to be everything this town says it can’t be,” the star said, emphasizing his commitment to monogamy.
An undated image of the actor on the set of “St. Elsewhere,” 1986 | Source: Getty Images
Since their first meeting, the lovebirds have kept their relationship out of the spotlight. The actress explained that their approach is less about secrecy and more about self-preservation, saying, “We’re not trying to keep something secret, but if you don’t want it totally exploited by the press, you have to.”
The couple at the 44th Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 31, 1987 | Source: Getty Images
The Hollywood couple married in March 1987 and were both in their 30s at the time. They welcomed their first child in April 1988, and their youngest followed in June 1992.
Elyse Knox, the actor and actress, and Sean Harmon pictured at the Los Angeles performance of “Jesus Christ Superstar” on August 13, 2006 | Source: Getty Images
Though the “My Sister Sam” alum had found success on television, she stepped back from her career to focus on raising her kids.
Rebecca Schaeffer and the actress on the set of “My Sister Sam,” 1986 | Source: Getty Images
“I had children, and it was like, ‘I’m not going to chase this fame thing,'” the actress shared. “I wanted to drive my kids to school. I wanted to be there for their birthdays and bring cupcakes and doughnuts. And I was very happy to do it.”
The actress and Sean Harmon pictured during “Picnic on the Green” on May 11, 1996, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Today, Pam Dawber and Mark Harmon’s sons, Sean Harmon, an actor, and Ty Harmon, a screenwriter, are both in their 30s. Mark once shared his pride in their individuality and dedication, saying, “I’m proud of our boys. They understand the work ethic and they’re very different.”
Sean Harmon and Harmon at the CBS fall schedule celebration on May 2, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
The father of two noted that family time influenced his decision to take the long-running role of Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs on the drama series “NCIS.”
Reflecting on his career balance, he said, “It was important to be able to make pancakes on Saturday morning.” Although the TV star admitted to missing some moments due to work, he mentioned that he had still been a part of his sons’ lives and had been able to spend more time with them.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to grow together as a family, the actor emphasized how fortunate he felt, saying he never started a day without that thought in mind.
Mark Harmon and Pam Dawber at the 23rd Annual Golden Boot Awards on August 14, 2005 | Source: Getty Images
Mark’s gratitude for his family took on new meaning in 2021 when his wife Pam made her first appearance on “NCIS” after 18 seasons. She portrayed Marcie Warren, a skilled investigative journalist known for her wit and dedication to uncovering the truth.
This role marked the first time the pair shared the screen on the long-running CBS series. Mark and Pam’s shared screen time on the show is just one chapter in their lasting 37-year marriage. In 2018, they renewed their vows in an intimate backyard ceremony, staying true to the private lives they cherish.
Pam Dawber and Mark Harmon on the set of “NCIS,” 2021 | Source: Getty Images
“It’s not even a choice. It’s who we are. We stay home. A lot. I’m not a Twitter guy or a Facebook guy. Our sons aren’t into that, either,” the family man explained at the time. Mark’s commitment to a private, grounded life reflects his deep pride in his marriage.
Mark Harmon pictured running errands on June 22, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Speaking about his wife, he once shared, “I’m proud to be married, and I’m proud of who I’m married to. I’m just so proud of her.” When asked about the secret to his and Pam’s lasting marriage in a November 2023 interview, the California native revealed, “I have no secret.”
Pam Dawber and Mark Harmon attend the Stuntmen’s Association of Motion Pictures 52nd Annual Awards Dinner on September 14, 2013, in Universal City, California. | Source: Getty Images
The veteran actor further explained that the joy in their relationship comes from laughter and open communication. They don’t often analyze their marriage, and he believes they may have simply been fortunate to find the right partner. Despite sharing much, they each bring unique differences to the relationship.
Mark Harmon and Pam Dawber attend the Rolling Stones performance on April 27, 2013, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
This quiet strength was on full display in July 2024, when the couple enjoyed a rare outing at a vintage flea market in Santa Monica, California, spending quality time together while searching for one-of-a-kind treasures.
Pam Dawber and Mark Harmon photographed at a flea market on June 30, 2024, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images
Fans celebrated the sighting with warm comments like, “Nice looking couple,” and “I love this couple!” with others noting, “They look so cute! Glad they’re still together.”
Pam Dawber and Mark Harmon pictured on June 30, 2024, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images
Mark Harmon and Pam’s enduring bond continues to inspire, proving that love and laughter can weather the test of time. For fans, each rare glimpse of their togetherness only reaffirms the strength of their quiet, steadfast romance.
