Sean Murray has been a cornerstone of NCIS for more than two decades, bringing Timothy McGee from a rookie agent to one of the show’s most beloved and reliable characters. While fans have often wondered if he would ever step away from the role, Murray recently admitted that there’s one line he would never cross — and if the show ever did, it could be his breaking point.

The actor explained that while he’s deeply grateful for the longevity of NCIS and the opportunities it’s given him, the most important thing to him is authenticity. If the writers ever shifted McGee into a place that betrayed his core character or diminished the values he’s built over the years, Murray said he wouldn’t hesitate to walk away. For him, protecting McGee’s integrity means more than staying for the sake of tradition.

That kind of loyalty to character is exactly why fans have connected so strongly with McGee. Viewers have watched him grow into a husband, a father, and a leader in his own right, and Murray’s commitment to staying true to that journey has made those storylines resonate. Knowing that he would leave rather than let the role be compromised shows just how seriously he takes the responsibility of portraying McGee.

Still, Murray made it clear that he has no plans to exit anytime soon. As long as the show continues to honor the heart of McGee, he’s happy to stick around and keep bringing the character to life. But the thought of him drawing that line in the sand leaves fans both reassured and nervous — comforted by his passion, but reminded that nothing on NCIS lasts forever.