Few viewers expected NCIS to mark its 500th episode with the loss of Director Leon Vance — but according to showrunner Steven D. Binder, the moment had been years in the making.
Binder revealed the writers had long discussed giving Vance a final storyline tied to his late wife Jackie. Still, the team delayed the decision because they valued Rocky Carroll’s presence so much.
As the milestone episode approached, they began searching for a story that felt big, emotional and unforgettable. That search led them back to the idea they had been holding onto for years.
Binder said the goal was to create a farewell that honored both the character’s sacrifice and the audience’s connection to him — while reminding fans how much they still care about the show after more than two decades on air.