‘It’s More Complicated Than That’: NCIS Showrunner Told Us What’s Next For Deputy Director LaRoche After His Intrusive Return

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As a long-time NCIS enthusiast who has spent countless hours dissecting every minute detail of each episode, I must say that the latest twist in the Gabriel LaRoche saga left me utterly intrigued! The man’s enigmatic presence has certainly stirred up a storm among the team, and his motives remain as elusive as ever.

Warning: SPOILERS for the NCIS episode “Humbug” are ahead!

In this year’s Christmas special of NCIS, which aired according to the 2024 television schedule, the team was not solving a typical murder case but rather delving into the truth behind an ambush that targeted a U.S. military squad in Afghanistan in December 2010. The investigation fell under the supervision of Seamus Dever’s character, Gabriel LaRoche, who is the new NCIS Deputy Director. This marked his return to the series. Showrunner Steven D. Binder shared insights on what we can expect from this enigmatic and possibly suspicious character in future episodes.

When LaRoche debuted in the second episode of Season 22, my initial thought was he might be the new main antagonist for NCIS. This assumption stemmed from Katrina Law’s comment about LaRoche causing McGee significant unease. However, the episode “Humbug” seemed to portray LaRoche in a more nuanced light, leading me to question if he was truly an adversary or if his role was more intricate. In an interview with Binder before the episode’s release, I asked him about this, and he replied:

From the perspective of a film enthusiast, it’s more intricate than meets the eye. At first glance, he might appear to be a typical antagonist, but as McGee delves deeper, his shady persona will only intensify. Yet, beneath that simplicity lies a complexity that we shouldn’t overlook. It’s quite plausible that this character isn’t all that he seems.

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In the series NCIS, they introduced one of my favorite recurring characters to aid Parker with his unusual visions. However, this enigma turned out to be even more intricate.

Did they really suggest ending a major recurring character on our show before I left? That’s surprising!” (or)

Gabriel LaRoche had disappeared after the Season 22 premiere of NCIS, as he was traveling to every NCIS office worldwide. However, McGee’s doubts about LaRoche persisted throughout his absence. Upon LaRoche’s return to Washington D.C., Director Vance tasked him with overseeing the team investigating Lieutenant Merritt Hastings, who faced accusations in an upcoming tell-all book of negligence during the 2010 attack. In summary, Hastings was eventually exonerated, ensuring that the medical bill he was championing for veterans would not be negatively impacted when it comes up for a vote next year.

Regarding LaRoche, it became evident that his approach clashed with our characters’ typical methods, and they found his constant presence uncomfortable. Nevertheless, towards the episode’s end, LaRoche accepted the blame for them when they persisted in investigating the case after it was assigned to JAG. This unexpected, yet appreciated action left me questioning what lies ahead for this mysterious figure. Here’s Steve D. Binder’s take on the episode events and future developments:

In the upcoming episode, I can’t wait to see Laroche working closely with the team, revealing his methods. This encounter only fuels McGee’s suspicions about him. As we move forward, McGee will grow increasingly wary of LaRoche. When he reappears again, it won’t be a casual meet-up; there will be danger involved. Essentially, McGee is on high alert, ready to take down Laroche should the situation demand it.

Based on just two recorded instances involving Gabriel LaRoche, it’s challenging to form a clear opinion about him. However, according to Binder, we shouldn’t automatically label him as a villain. Yet, he isn’t entirely an ally either, as McGee suspects LaRoche is acting in his own best interests, which could potentially cause issues for the team. This might be why McGee seems to be plotting against him, although the specifics of this plan remain unclear.

As we approach January 27, 2025, you can expect to uncover more mysteries when NCIS returns for its 22nd season. Until then, catch up on previous NCIS episodes or delve into other series within the procedural franchise by streaming them with a Paramount+ subscription.

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2024-12-17 06:37