In NCIS Season 22, Timothy McGee’s long tenure presents a new challenge, one that doesn’t have an easy fix. With Ducky Mallard’s passing in Season 21, McGee is now the longest-standing member of the Major Case Response Team (MCRT), having witnessed every version of the squad and significant transitions, including Gibbs’ retirement in Alaska. Over two decades, McGee has evolved from a nervous Probie to a capable Senior Field Agent. His character arc includes a fulfilling personal life—he’s now married to Delilah and has two children. However, this season is exposing a dilemma for McGee’s character that seems difficult to resolve.
NCIS’ New Deputy Director Raises Questions
In the season premiere, McGee aspired to become the new Deputy Director but lost the position to Gabriel LaRoche, a former DOJ Inspector General. Beyond the potential threat LaRoche poses to NCIS, passing over McGee—a veteran agent with 20+ years in the agency—was a disheartening decision. During a stakeout with Parker in Episode 3, “The Trouble with Hal,” McGee acknowledged the sting of missing the promotion, but the conversation also highlighted that accepting the role would have taken him away from MCRT.
Staying in MCRT feels less viable for McGee, as his aspirations for a promotion reflect his growth and desire for change. It’s undeniable that he’s outgrown the role of Senior Field Agent, yet there’s no opportunity for advancement in his current team, creating an impasse for his future on the show.
McGee Has Outgrown His Current Role
While LaRoche’s storyline unfolds, McGee’s missed promotion presents a crossroads for his character. Remaining in the MCRT now feels stagnant, yet moving up in NCIS would mean leaving behind the team he’s dedicated so many years to. Three years ago, McGee turned down Gibbs’ position, preferring to remain in the field, but his recent experience as Acting Director in NCIS’ 1000th episode may have sparked a new drive to climb the ranks.
To address McGee’s dilemma, NCIS could consider changes within the agency. Expanding the Deputy Director role to incorporate fieldwork would allow McGee to advance while still being involved in active cases. Alternatively, he could ultimately succeed Leon Vance as Director if Vance’s potential departure becomes a reality.
A Fresh Direction for McGee’s Story
As things stand, NCIS will need to make a significant adjustment to satisfy McGee’s career aspirations without losing the character’s presence on the team. Allowing McGee to step into a Deputy Director role with field responsibilities could enrich both his storyline and the dynamics of MCRT. If not, the series may have to prepare for McGee’s eventual exit, with the character moving on to the higher position he has earned.
After two decades of loyalty and evolution, McGee deserves a narrative that reflects his growth. Whether that’s through a new role or a bold new direction, fans are hopeful NCIS will give him the closure and progression he’s due.
