'NCIS' Shocker As Veteran Cast Member Exits In Series' 500th Episode
Deadline • • entertainment
Key Points:
- NCIS aired its 500th episode on March 24, featuring the shocking death of Director Leon Vance, played by Rocky Carroll, who was shot by a corrupt agent after defending the NCIS team from being shut down.
- Carroll revealed in an interview that the decision to kill off his character was not planned at the start of the season and he learned about Vance's death just two episodes before filming.
- The idea to kill off Vance came from executive producer Steven D. Binder, who aimed to create shockwaves in the TV community and among fans with this milestone episode.
- Carroll, who had portrayed Vance for 18 seasons, expressed that the storyline was a great tribute to his character and felt his role came full circle despite wishing to be part of the show until its very end.
- Binder described the 500th episode as a "tribute and a love letter" to Vance, ensuring the character’s legacy will endure in television history.
