Rocky Carroll is saying goodbye to one of NCIS’ most enduring characters after 18 seasons as Director Leon Vance—and the actor admits the news came as a surprise.
The longtime star shared that learning about Vance’s death ahead of the show’s 500th episode initially felt surreal. Still, he quickly came to appreciate the significance of the storyline and what it meant for the show’s history.
Rather than leaving by choice, Carroll explained the twist was part of a larger creative decision designed to “turn the NCIS universe upside down.”
In his final appearance, Vance dies while protecting the agency he spent years leading, a heroic ending that reflects his importance to the team.
Though fans were devastated by the twist, Carroll remains grateful for his record-breaking run—and even teased he could return in flashbacks down the road. 🎬