Olivia Swann, portraying Special Agent Michelle Mackey in NCIS: Sydney, disclosed that Mackey conceals her tragic past to maintain an image of strength and safeguard her team. Fear of vulnerability hinders her from trusting others and sharing her past mistakes. The consequences of Mackey’s actions may resurface, potentially affecting trust in her leadership. Swann emphasized Mackey’s protective instincts for both herself and her team, emphasizing the character’s difficulty in trusting people. The unveiled past, hinted in episode 4, may unfold in future episodes, providing deeper characterization and potential challenges for Mackey’s leadership.