Curious World Staff
In many police procedurals, major events are often left behind quickly. But NCIS, now approaching 500 episodes in Season 23, has continued to evolve its characters, with some of the best episodes coming from major turning points-like character exits or deaths.
Though no original cast members remain, Sean Murray’s Timothy McGee and Brian Dietzen’s Jimmy Palmer, both of whom debuted in Season 1, are now key players. Palmer became Chief Medical Examiner after Ducky stepped down, while McGee nearly became NCIS Deputy Director in Season 22. However, a defining moment in McGee’s journey happened back in Season 11.
McGee and Delilah’s Relationship Shifts in Season 11
Delilah Fielding (Margo Harshman) made her debut in Season 11, Episode 1, as a web-security expert at the Department of Defense. She helped out the team and quickly became a fan favorite. Her chemistry with McGee, Gibbs, and eventually Abby stood out. Gibbs supported their relationship, and even Abby, McGee’s ex, grew to respect Delilah.
But things turned dark in Episode 12, “K1ll Chain,” when a gala honoring Delilah was att4cked by t3rror1st Benham Parsa. A drone exploded during the event, severely injuring Delilah. In the following episode, “Double Back,” she’s revealed to be paralyzed. The moment deeply impacted both characters and shaped their future.
Real Events Inspired Delilah’s Tragedy
Former showrunner Gary Glasberg revealed that Delilah’s storyline was inspired by the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. He wanted to portray someone who, despite trauma, rebuilds her life with strength and grace. Instead of making her a victim, the writers let Delilah shine-proving her resilience and growing even closer to McGee as a result.
McGee and Delilah: NCIS’ Strongest Couple
While NCIS has featured several couples-Tony and Ziva, Gibbs and Dr. Ryan, and now Palmer and Knight-McGee and Delilah remain the most solid. They faced tragedy early but came through stronger, marrying and raising twins. McGee sometimes tries to shield her, but Delilah continually proves her strength and independence.
Their honest communication and mutual respect make them the healthiest couple on the show. Even after Gibbs’ departure in Season 19, his influence still guides McGee’s choices as a husband, father, and agent. With Season 23 leaning more into character-driven stories like NCIS: Origins, now is the perfect time to revisit Delilah and explore McGee’s next chapter after missing out on the Deputy Director role.
NCIS Season 23 premieres October 14.
