Before Sean Murray became a household name as Timothy McGee on NCIS, he showcased his talents in a sitcom role that few fans remember. A year before landing the iconic role in the long-running procedural, Murray starred in the short-lived CBS sitcom Still Standing in 2002.
In Still Standing, Murray played the role of a charming and somewhat quirky young man named Eric, who was part of a dysfunctional, yet lovable family. The show, which was centered around a couple raising their children in the suburbs, blended family dynamics and humor in a way that resonated with audiences, even if it didn’t have the longevity of NCIS. Although Still Standing didn’t manage to find the same lasting success as NCIS, it provided Murray with valuable comedic experience that would later influence his portrayal of McGee.
While Still Standing didn’t last long, it marked an important moment in Murray’s career. The sitcom showcased his ability to deliver punchlines and play a more light-hearted, humorous role, which later complemented his performance in NCIS, where McGee’s character occasionally adds a bit of comic relief, despite his often serious demeanor as a Naval officer.
Despite the show’s quick cancellation after just one season, Murray’s role in Still Standing demonstrated his versatility as an actor and set the stage for his long-term success in the NCIS universe. Since then, he’s become an integral part of the NCIS team, delivering memorable moments and developing a strong fanbase.
For fans of NCIS, it’s interesting to look back and realize how Murray’s early sitcom experience helped shape the character of Timothy McGee—a nerdy, yet endearing tech expert who sometimes finds himself in awkward, humorous situations.
