The 500th episode of NCIS delivered one of the series’ biggest shocks yet with the exit of Director Leon Vance — a moment showrunner Steven D. Binder says took years to reach.
Binder explained that writers had long considered giving Vance a storyline that reunited him with his late wife, Jackie. But because Rocky Carroll’s performance became such a cornerstone of the show, the team waited until the timing felt right.
That opportunity arrived with the landmark episode celebration.
Binder described the decision as emotional but necessary to create a story that matched the scale of the milestone. He hopes the farewell gives fans both heartbreak and closure, while reminding them how deeply connected they remain to the characters.
Even so, he noted that Vance’s story may continue through flashbacks or special appearances in future episodes.