NCIS showrunner Steven D. Binder has revealed how season 23 will change Director Vance as a character. The long-running CBS show is considered one of the greatest procedurals of all time, and, with NCIS season 22 concluding in May 2025, season 23 is due to premiere October 14, and could see a big change to one key character. While NCIS season 22 wasted its best villain in years, the finale still brought with it plenty of twists, culminating in Alden Parker discovering the death of his father at the hands of mob boss Carla Marino. This looks to set up an emotional Parker arc in season 23, but changes to Vance’s character could come into conflict with this.
In an interview with TV Insider, Binder describes how the typically relaxed director is set to have a more by-the-book approach this season, for a mysterious reason. He discussed how the changes are set to try to hasten the conclusion of the storyline, and teased some explosive moments. Check out his comments below:
We’ve often played Director Vance telling his team they need to get back in the box, then he goes, wink, wink, nudge, nudge, and leaves the file on his desk while he leaves the office so they can look through something they need to. That’s not the case this time. There are “mysterious reasons” for why he’s going back to being “very by the book.” We feel like this storyline is nearing its conclusion, and we are going to hasten that. At various points, they’re all going to have their explosive moments.
“NCIS” has always mastered the art of balancing explosive cases with deeply personal character arcs. As the series gears up for Season 23, fans have one burning question: what’s next for Leon Vance? The longtime Director of NCIS, portrayed by Rocky Carroll, has been a pillar of leadership since 2008. But now, the showrunner has hinted at big changes for Vance that could reshape the entire team dynamic. If you think Vance is just going to sit behind his desk for another season, think again. Season 23 promises to push him in ways we’ve never seen before. Let’s break down everything teased so far and explore what it really means for the future of NCIS.
Who Is Leon Vance in NCIS?
Before we dive into the teasers, let’s refresh our memory. Leon Vance stepped into the role of NCIS Director after Jenny Shepard’s tragic death. Known for his sharp instincts, military background, and no-nonsense leadership style, Vance quickly became a fan favorite.
But beyond the badge, he’s also a father who has endured loss, betrayal, and countless threats. His arc has often been a mix of strength and vulnerability, making him one of the most layered characters on the show.
The Showrunner’s Tease: What We Know So Far
In a recent interview, the showrunner dropped a major hint: Vance’s role will “change in a way that impacts both the agency and his personal journey.” While details are scarce, this statement suggests something more than routine cases—it points to a seismic shift in his storyline.
Could this mean retirement? A promotion? Or perhaps, stepping back into the field? The possibilities are endless, and that’s exactly what has fans buzzing.
Why Vance’s Story Matters More Than Ever
You might wonder, why focus on Vance when NCIS has so many dynamic characters? The answer is simple: he’s the glue.
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Leadership Anchor: Vance keeps the team steady when chaos hits.
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Personal Depth: His storylines often ground the show in emotional reality.
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Symbol of NCIS Legacy: After two decades, his presence bridges past and present.
A shift in his arc isn’t just about him—it ripples through Gibbs’ legacy, Parker’s leadership, and the team’s unity.
Potential Directions for Vance in Season 23
Will Vance Retire from NCIS?
After decades of service, retirement could be a natural storyline. It would give the show a chance to explore succession and how the team adjusts to new leadership.
Could Vance Return to the Field?
Imagine Vance swapping his suit for a tactical vest again. Field missions would reignite the action side of his character and add high-stakes drama.
A Political Future for Vance?
Some fans speculate he could step into a government advisory role. This move would expand NCIS’s world beyond investigations, highlighting the political pressures the agency faces.
A Personal Storyline Finally Takes Center Stage
For years, Vance’s family life has been touched upon but never fully explored. Season 23 could give us a deeper look into his role as a father, or perhaps introduce new challenges that test his personal boundaries.
Impact on the NCIS Team Dynamic
Alden Parker’s Leadership Tested
If Vance steps back, Parker could find himself navigating leadership without that steady anchor. Would Parker rise to the challenge—or struggle under pressure?
Torres, Knight, and the Younger Agents
Vance’s presence has always been a stabilizing force for the younger agents. A shift in his role might force them to take on greater responsibility.
McGee’s Long-Term Future
Tim McGee has been seen as a natural leader-in-waiting. Vance’s storyline could set the stage for McGee to take on even more authority.
What This Means for Longtime Fans
For die-hard NCIS viewers, changes to Vance’s role hit differently. He’s been around for nearly 15 years, becoming as iconic as Gibbs, Ducky, and Abby. Any shift in his story isn’t just another plot twist—it’s a turning point for the series itself.
Think of it like the foundation of a house. You can repaint the walls or change the furniture, but once the foundation shifts, the whole structure feels different. That’s what Vance’s arc could mean for Season 23.
Comparisons to Past NCIS Shakeups
We’ve seen big exits before—Gibbs, Ziva, Tony, Abby. Each one left a mark. But Vance’s transformation wouldn’t be about departure; it would be about evolution. Instead of removing a cornerstone, the show might be reshaping him to fit a new era.
Fan Theories: What Could Really Happen?
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Theory 1: Vance Mentors His Successor – Passing the torch while staying involved.
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Theory 2: A Shocking Betrayal – Could Vance uncover corruption close to home?
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Theory 3: Health Scare Arc – A storyline that tests his resilience and draws emotional weight.
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Theory 4: Family Ties – His children could play a bigger role in the upcoming season.
Why the Showrunner’s Words Spark Speculation
The phrasing “change in a way that impacts both the agency and his personal journey” wasn’t accidental. NCIS showrunners are known for carefully chosen teasers that fuel fan theories without giving away too much.
This deliberate vagueness creates buzz, keeps fans hooked, and ensures Season 23 premieres with maximum anticipation.
How This Could Shape the Future of NCIS
If Season 23 positions Vance differently, it could set the tone for the next decade of the franchise. His arc might serve as the bridge from the old NCIS world to whatever the show becomes in its later seasons.
What Fans Should Watch For in the Premiere
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Subtle changes in Vance’s behavior or dialogue.
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Any hints of succession planning.
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Personal challenges teased in the first few episodes.
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How other characters react to shifts in his leadership.
Conclusion
NCIS Season 23 isn’t just another chapter—it’s a turning point, especially for Leon Vance. With the showrunner teasing significant changes, fans should brace for a storyline that could redefine both the character and the agency he leads. Whether it’s retirement, a deeper personal arc, or stepping back into the action, one thing’s certain: Vance will never be the same.
