NCIS changed forever in its milestone 500th episode with the devastating loss of Director Leon Vance, leaving fans wondering who could possibly step into one of the show’s most important roles.
Executive producer Steven D. Binder confirmed that while the team will continue grieving Vance’s sacrifice, they’ll also move forward in his honor by staying focused on their mission. Still, someone will eventually need to take the director’s chair.
One longtime possibility is Timothy McGee, whom Vance himself once suggested was “destined to lead.” But with the series already renewed for Season 24, the promotion may not happen immediately.
Other options include bringing back a familiar franchise favorite for a temporary leadership arc, introducing a brand-new character with ties to the team, or even pulling someone from another NCIS series to guide the agency through its next chapter.