NCIS Season 23, Episode 6, “Page-Turner,” is easily the strongest installment of the season so far—an inventive, heartfelt story that proves the long-running drama can still surprise audiences. Twenty-three years in, the show manages a bold, meta detour centered on one of its most enduring characters: Timothy McGee (Sean Murray).
A Deep Dive Into Thom E. Gemcity
This episode pulls McGee’s writer alter ego, Thom E. Gemcity, to the forefront, giving us a rare blend of mystery, humor, introspection, and character-driven storytelling. Gary Cole, Katrina Law, and Wilmer Valderrama get to play McGee’s fictionalized versions of Parker, Jessica, and Torres—figments of his imagination who help him unravel the case and confront what these people truly mean to him.
For all his insistence that his Deep Six characters aren’t based on his colleagues, the parallels are undeniable. And the hour ultimately highlights the real emotional core of NCIS: the team’s relationships. Even after decades of cast transitions, the show continues to build meaningful dynamics that fans invest in.
McGee at His Best
Sean Murray shines as McGee navigates author-mode chaos, personal fears, and some literal hand-to-hand combat. The episode reminds us how dynamic McGee still is after all these years—part tech expert, part reluctant action hero, part introspective writer. He doesn’t get many episodes fully dedicated to him, and “Page-Turner” makes the most of it.
It’s also a testament to why NCIS continues to thrive. It’s not just about cases or shocking twists—it’s about characters viewers want to follow, analyze, and even write fanfiction about.
Twenty-Three Seasons In, NCIS Still Has Surprises
With its creativity, comedy, and emotional punch, “Page-Turner” proves NCIS still knows how to deliver standout storytelling. It celebrates longtime viewers, rewards fans’ understanding of these characters, and has fun poking at the show’s own legacy.
Quick Thoughts
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Palmer with long hair—unforgettable.
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Kasie in the field!! Finally!
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McGee DEFINITELY based his characters on the team.
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Torres’ alter ego being “not him but also absolutely him” is hilarious.
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Fake Knight/Fake Torres having a ship name? Incredible.
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Rule 39 strikes again.
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Katrina Law channeling Nyssa Al Ghul vibes… we see you.
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That revelation about Myers? Heartwarming.
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“All hail Deep Sixsies.”
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Of COURSE Parker’s mom didn’t die in a car crash. Who’s surprised?
