When Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon) walked away from NCIS in Season 19, it marked the end of an era. The legendary leader of the Major Case Response Team chose to settle in Alaska, seemingly content to leave his badge behind. But NCIS has a long history of bringing characters back at pivotal moments. And if there’s one person who could convince Gibbs to return, history suggests it has to be Timothy McGee (Sean Murray).
The Deep Bond Between Gibbs and McGee
From the moment McGee joined NCIS in Season 1, his relationship with Gibbs was built on mentorship and mutual respect. While Tony DiNozzo often bore the brunt of Gibbs’ infamous head slaps, McGee gradually earned his trust and evolved from a timid rookie into a confident senior field agent.
Gibbs has always had a soft spot for McGee, treating him like a son. Over the years, their relationship deepened—most notably in Season 18, when Gibbs risked everything to protect McGee from being shot during an undercover mission. If there’s anyone who could reach out to Gibbs in his self-imposed exile, it would be McGee.
Why McGee Would Be the One to Call Gibbs Back
Historically, Gibbs has only ever returned when someone he deeply cares about is in danger or in need of guidance. If McGee were to face a life-threatening case or a personal crisis, Gibbs would never stand by and do nothing.
There are several scenarios where McGee might pull Gibbs out of retirement:
- A Major Threat to NCIS Headquarters – If a terrorist attack or a high-stakes case puts the entire agency in danger, McGee could turn to Gibbs for his expertise and leadership.
- McGee’s Family in Danger – If something happened to McGee’s wife, Delilah, or their children, Gibbs would undoubtedly step in to help his protégé.
- McGee Becomes NCIS Director and Needs Gibbs’ Counsel – If Leon Vance were to retire or be taken out of commission, McGee could step into a leadership role. And what better person to guide him than Gibbs?
- A Case with Personal Ties to Gibbs – If an old enemy or unresolved case from Gibbs’ past resurfaces, McGee might be the one to bring him back into action.
The Emotional Weight of a Gibbs Return
Gibbs leaving NCIS was a seismic shift for the show, but his absence is still felt. While Gary Cole’s Alden Parker has done a commendable job as team leader, he doesn’t share the same history with McGee as Gibbs did. A reunion between Gibbs and McGee would be one of the most emotional moments NCIS has ever delivered.
Even if Gibbs doesn’t return full-time, a special appearance—perhaps for a two-part event or a series finale—would be a fitting way to honor their bond.
Final Thoughts
History proves that Gibbs has always come back when it truly matters. And if NCIS is ever going to pull him out of retirement, Timothy McGee is the one person who could make it happen.
