Rocky Carroll Opens Up About His Surprising NCIS Exit After Nearly Two Decades as Director Vance
In a candid interview, Rocky Carroll talks about when he learned what would happen in episode 500 of 'NCIS' and why he ended up embracing it.
'NCIS' Shocker: Rocky Carroll Tells All on His Unexpected [SPOILER] and Playing Director Vance for Nearly Two Decades
Rocky Carroll, who has portrayed NCIS Director Leon Vance since 2008, is opening up about the jaw-dropping twist that left fans reeling during the landmark 500th episode of the long-running CBS procedural. In a candid new interview, the veteran actor revealed that he was initially caught off guard when showrunners approached him about the major storyline planned for the milestone episode, but ultimately found himself embracing the creative decision wholeheartedly. Carroll, who has been a cornerstone of the series for nearly two decades, said the conversation about his character's fate came earlier than he expected, giving him time to process and prepare.
Carroll shared that when he first learned what the writers had in store for Director Vance, he experienced a whirlwind of emotions. "You spend this many years living with a character, and they become part of you," Carroll explained. "So when I heard what was coming, I had to sit with it for a while." He noted that the producers were transparent and respectful throughout the process, making sure he felt included in the creative choices surrounding how the storyline would unfold. That level of collaboration, he said, made all the difference in how he approached the material.
Despite the shock factor, Carroll expressed deep gratitude for the journey he has had on the show. When he first joined NCIS in its fifth season, he never imagined that the role of Leon Vance would become one of the longest-running characters in the franchise's history. Over the years, Vance evolved from a mysterious and sometimes adversarial figure into a beloved leader whose personal losses and professional sacrifices resonated deeply with the audience. Carroll credited the writers, his fellow cast members, and the passionate fan base for making the experience one of the most rewarding of his career.
Looking ahead, Carroll said he is at peace with however his NCIS chapter concludes and is excited about future projects on the horizon. He encouraged fans to watch the milestone episode with an open mind, promising that the story is handled with the weight and emotional depth that both the character and the audience deserve. "Leon Vance has meant everything to me," Carroll said. "And I think when people see how it all plays out, they'll understand why I ended up not just accepting it, but truly embracing it." The 500th episode of NCIS is set to be one of the most talked-about moments in the show's storied history.