WARNING: This article contains major spoilers for the fifth episode of NCIS season 18. Read at your own risk.
The fate of Timothy McGee (Sean Murray) is in question following the events that transpired in the recently-released fifth episode of NCIS season 18. He was shot by his boss, Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon), which could have consequences in the future.
When NCIS season 18 premiered back in November 2020, a lot of viewers were shocked when Gibbs shot McGee. At the time, there are so many questions as to why he did that. This particular event leads to some speculation that Murray might be leaving the police procedural drama.
Now, episode 5 provided answers, and everything becomes clear. It was revealed that Gibbs was tracking down "The Head of the Snake," which references the episode title. They're still on Merriweather case even though it had grown cold.
When the DEA was about to take over the case, Gibbs heard something from Tobias Fornell (Joe Spano). He informed the rest of the team about what he heard, and they went on a mission. This is where McGee was shot as he was put in a role where he needs to pose as Fornell.
Gibbs shot McGee for a very specific reason -- the plane he's heading to was about to explode. He decided to hurt his beloved agent to save his life. He was trying to protect him all along, albeit in a strange way. But then, this incident could impact their relationship, as well.
Gibbs warned McGee before shooting him, but it looks like the latter didn't hear what he said. And although he didn't aim at the heart or head, McGee was in bad shape. He was taken to the hospital, and his wife, Delilah (Margo Cathleen Harshman), claimed he's not getting any better.
The next episodes of NCIS season 18 will provide answers, specifically whether or not McGee makes it out alive. The good news is that there is no indication that Murray is leaving his role. It's also unlikely he'll be killed since he's one of the significant characters.
Meanwhile, Murray promised there would be a "realistic fallout" following what happened between McGee and Gibbs. Speaking to TV Insider, he made it clear that viewers will see the aftermath of the shooting, and there's going to be a rough recovery ahead.
Murray said that the effects wouldn't be all about the physical but more of emotional impact. He explained that McGee might have a hard time accepting that someone close to him -- and even considered as a father figure -- shoots him. This event may play out as the story progresses.
NCIS season 18 new episodes arrive every Tuesday night on CBS.
