The long-running CBS procedural NCIS delivered a major turning point with its 500th episode, marking the end of an era for Rocky Carroll, who exits the series after nearly two decades as Director Leon Vance. The milestone episode, titled “All Good Things,” aired March 24 and concludes with Vance’s death.
Carroll’s character meets his fate while uncovering a conspiracy involving a rival agency threatening to dismantle NCIS. In the episode, Vance exposes a double agent and is ultimately shot during a confrontation. Though initially believed to have survived, the story takes a dramatic turn, revealing that Vance has died.
The moment serves as a defining send-off for Carroll, who joined NCIS in 2008 and appeared in nearly 400 episodes. His portrayal of Vance helped anchor the show through cast changes and evolving storylines, solidifying his place as one of the franchise’s most recognizable figures. Beyond acting, Carroll also directed more than two dozen episodes.
Reflecting on the decision, Carroll recalled being informed by showrunner Steven D. Binder about the character’s fate during production.
“It seems like all hope is gone,” Carroll said to USA Today of the storyline he was pitched, before noting that Vance ultimately “loses his life” while saving the agency.
The actor described the moment as surreal, saying he asked for clarification after hearing the outcome. “I said, ‘Repeat that last part again,’” he shared, describing the experience as an “out-of-body” moment.
The episode was designed as both a high-stakes narrative and a tribute to the character’s legacy. Carroll said the creative team aimed to deliver “a real send-off,” blending action with emotional callbacks, including a montage of past moments and references to Vance’s late wife.
The sequence closes with Vance stepping into the afterlife and reuniting with the beloved forensic pathologist, Dr. Donald “Duckie” Mallard, whose character was written off the show after its actor, David McCallum, passed away in 2023.
Carroll’s exit also highlights the rarity of such longevity in television. “Eighteen seasons is rarefied air,” he said, noting that the opportunity to remain on a single series for that length of time is uncommon in the industry.
He added that the milestone made the departure easier to accept, given the scope of the run.
Before becoming synonymous with NCIS, Carroll built his reputation in television and theater, including a standout role on the early-’90s sitcom Roc. The Fox series, which aired episodes live during its second season, earned praise for its performances and cultural authenticity—an approach that helped shape Carroll’s grounded presence on later projects.
While Carroll is stepping away from his on-screen role, his connection to NCIS is not entirely over. He is set to return to direct an upcoming episode.
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