NCIS continues its impressive run with the upcoming 22nd season, and Sean Murray is set to break a major franchise record. The CBS procedural, which celebrated its 20th anniversary last fall, has seen many cast members come and go, but Murray has been a consistent presence since joining as Timothy McGee in Season 1. He quickly became a series regular in Season 2 and has remained a vital part of the team, even as other fan-favorites like Cote de Pablo, Michael Weatherly, and Mark Harmon departed.
Next season, Murray will surpass the late David McCallum for the most appearances in the franchise. McCallum, who played Chief Medical Examiner Donald “Ducky” Mallard, appeared in 459 episodes across the NCIS universe, including JAG and NCIS: New Orleans. Murray is currently at 452 episodes, meaning he’ll break the record early in Season 22.
Despite the franchise’s longevity and constant changes, Murray shows no signs of leaving, even after suffering a permanent injury on set. It’s a record worth celebrating, especially as NCIS continues to thrive, passing 450 episodes in Season 20 and the franchise hitting 1,000 episodes during Season 21.
As Murray inches closer to this milestone, other franchise records are also in play. Mark Harmon’s Gibbs and Rocky Carroll’s Vance are neck-and-neck for the most appearances across the NCIS universe. With NCIS: Origins on the horizon, the competition between the two iconic characters is heating up.
Fans won’t want to miss the action when NCIS Season 22 premieres on Monday, October 14, as Sean Murray becomes the most senior actor in the franchise.
