'NCIS' set to bring back key character before Season 23 finale as Timothy McGee’s story takes new turn
CBS' flagship procedural drama 'NCIS' has kept viewers engaged for 23 years, despite its original cast and characters being completely replaced. The show's storyline often surprises viewers with shocking, hilarious, and often surprising revelations about its characters' pasts. However, something similar happened in Season 23 episode 12, when it was revealed that Timothy McGee has a long-lost son, Mateo. In the following episodes, there was no mention of the character or acknowledgment of the storyline, but in the final moments of episode 16, McGee reached out to his son, and they bonded over a phone call. According to Matt's Inside Line, Mateo will be seen again in upcoming episodes this season.
The shocking revelation unfolded while the team was investigating the murder of Navy Chief Warrant Officer Martin Hodges. The man was stabbed while operating a drone. The investigation led them to McGee's ex-girlfriend, Olivia, and her son, Mateo. Olivia and McGee had been a couple 18 years ago; noting Mateo’s age, a suspicious McGee asked Kasie to run a paternity test. The results confirmed his suspicion. The news was heartbreaking for a man who took immense pride in being a good father to his twins. Olivia explained that she found out about her pregnancy after their breakup and felt it was best to keep it a secret. She believed that once he knew the truth, he would propose to her out of obligation, leading to a loveless union. McGee accepted Olivia's apology and asked to be a part of Mateo's life.
Following this emotionally charged episode, the show pivoted from this storyline due to the unexpected death of NCIS Director Leon Vance. The character, played by Rocky Carroll, had been on the show for 18 years, making him the oldest character after McGee. Naturally, his death and the aftermath became the major focus of the subsequent episodes. McGee is now in the frontline, taking over Vance's position. So it would be interesting to see how the show sets up his personal and professional storylines.
The upcoming two episodes on Tuesday and on April 28 will feature LL Cool J’s Sam Hanna, so the fans might have to wait for some time to see Patrick Keleher's Mateo again. But the actor would make an appearance in 'NCIS' before the season finale on May 5. Since the series has been renewed for another season, the father-son storyline might take a bigger shape than expected. 'NCIS' is known for throwing major curveballs towards its viewers. Episode 17, titled 'Reboot,' will air on CBS at 8:00 p.m. ET.
