With NCIS season 22 set to premiere on Monday, October 14, longtime fans are preparing to welcome back one of the show’s most enduring characters: Special Agent Timothy McGee, played by Sean Murray.
It’s been over two decades since Murray first appeared in the season one episode Sub Rosa, and today, the 46-year-old actor proudly holds the title of NCIS’ longest-serving cast member. But who is Sean Murray off-screen? Here’s a look at his Hollywood beginnings, family ties, and the whispers of behind-the-scenes drama.
Early Career: From Hocus Pocus to NCIS
Long before he joined Gibbs’ team, Murray made his big-screen debut in Disney’s cult classic Hocus Pocus (1993), playing Thackery Binx, the 17th-century teen cursed into a black cat.
From there, he built an impressive résumé with guest roles on ER, Boston Public, JAG, and Harts of the West. His breakout moment came in 2003 when he joined NCIS as McGee, transforming from a computer nerd rookie into one of the show’s most beloved and respected agents.
A Famous Hollywood Family
Murray’s family story is as fascinating as his career. His father was a U.S. Navy captain, which meant Sean spent much of his youth moving between military bases around the world. After his parents divorced, his mother remarried TV powerhouse Donald P. Bellisario, the creator behind Magnum P.I., Quantum Leap, JAG, and of course, NCIS.
Through this marriage, Murray gained several well-known step-siblings, including Pretty Little Liars star Troian Bellisario and actor Michael Bellisario. His brother, Chad W. Murray, has also worked behind the scenes as a producer on NCIS and NCIS: Los Angeles.
The entertainment streak continues into the next generation: Murray’s daughter Cay Ryan Murray (with wife Carrie James, whom he married in 2005) guest-starred on NCIS in 2022, playing Teagan Fields in the episode The Brat Pack.
Life Beyond the Cameras
Despite his Hollywood roots, Murray’s personal life is grounded. He and Carrie, a teacher-turned-entrepreneur, are raising two children: daughter Cay and son River. The family keeps a relatively low profile, though Sean occasionally shares proud dad moments when his daughter steps into the acting spotlight.
The Rumored Feud
Like any long-running show, NCIS has seen its share of behind-the-scenes tension. While the high-profile fallout between Pauley Perrette (Abby) and Mark Harmon (Gibbs) once dominated headlines, more recent rumors suggest friction between Murray and his co-star Wilmer Valderrama, who plays Agent Nick Torres.
According to sources quoted by Radar, the tension stems from both actors competing for the spotlight following Mark Harmon’s departure.
“There’s no denying Mark’s exit gave their characters room to grow. But now you’ve got two actors who both think they should be the star of the show,” the insider claimed.
While neither Murray nor Valderrama has addressed the speculation publicly, whispers suggest the competition for top billing has led to off-camera clashes—even as the two maintain a professional front onscreen.
What’s Next
With season 22 just around the corner, Murray’s McGee will once again be at the heart of the action. Whether or not the rumors of co-star rivalry are true, one thing is certain: after 21 years, Sean Murray remains an essential piece of the NCIS puzzle.
