Warning: SPOILERS Ahead for NCIS Season 22, Episode 9!
NCIS season 22’s midseason finale teased a brewing conflict between Timothy McGee (Sean Murray) and the team’s new Deputy Director, Gabrielle LaRoche (Seamus Dever). In episode 9, LaRoche’s behavior raised red flags as he meddled in the team’s investigation, questioned their methods at every step, and insisted on being involved in all aspects of the case, including witness interviews. His actions not only disrupted the investigation but also culminated in him taking credit for solving a case he had initially tried to derail—an act that sparked a particularly negative reaction from McGee.
McGee Takes the Lead in Investigating LaRoche
Speaking to TV Insider, executive producer Steven D. Binder teased that McGee will spearhead an investigation into LaRoche when the show returns in January. While McGee currently only has his suspicions, Binder promised that McGee will “peel back the layers” of the Deputy Director, uncovering more about his mysterious behavior.
Binder hinted at a pivotal upcoming episode inspired by the classic film Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, featuring McGee and LaRoche in a more personal setting. “It’s one thing to hunt down a guy or track someone in an office across town, but when they’re in your powder room, it gets a little more entertaining,” Binder teased.
The executive producer also acknowledged that McGee’s initial mistrust of LaRoche might stem from lingering resentment over LaRoche taking the Deputy Director role—a position McGee himself might have hoped to secure. However, Binder was quick to point out that McGee’s instincts as a seasoned agent mean his suspicions could be well-founded. “If he smells smoke, there just might be fire,” Binder added.
What Is LaRoche Hiding?
While LaRoche’s true motives remain unclear, his antagonistic actions have already painted him as a potential threat to the team. Despite his position of power, his willingness to disrupt investigations is unsettling to McGee, who has already decided to dig deeper into his new superior’s past.
Whether LaRoche is simply an overbearing authority figure or something more sinister, Binder’s comments suggest that McGee’s investigation will be a central storyline in the second half of the season. It’s unlikely LaRoche’s arc will carry over into a potential season 23, meaning his secrets—and their consequences—will likely come to light in the coming episodes.
Midseason Finale Recap: Key Moments
Episode 9’s gripping midseason finale saw Parker’s team navigating a high-profile case centered on a controversial tell-all book, with LaRoche overseeing the investigation. Despite his earlier introduction in season 22, this episode solidified LaRoche as an obstacle for the team, raising stakes for his interactions moving forward.
What’s Next for McGee and the Team?
As NCIS season 22 continues, McGee’s investigation into LaRoche is set to take center stage, promising significant revelations and possibly a dramatic showdown. Fans will have to wait until January 27, 2025, to see how McGee’s suspicions unfold. With secrets still buried and tensions running high, the Deputy Director’s true motives are bound to shake up the dynamics of the team.
Stay tuned as the mystery deepens in the second half of NCIS season 22.
