After over two decades on air, NCIS has officially hit a historic milestone by airing its 500th episode on March 24- an episode that honors the show’s legacy and marks a turning point into a new era.
Warning! Spoilers Ahead.
Since its 2003 debut, the CBS original series has cemented its status as one of television’s most enduring crime dramas. With its high-stakes investigations, ever-evolving characters, and unmatched cast chemistry, NCIS has captivated fans around the world for 23 seasons. But even after 500 episodes, the show still managed to shock its audience with a game-changing plot twist.
The episode, entitled “All Good Things,” follows Director Leon Vance, portrayed by Rocky Carroll, as he embarks on an emotional journey to save NCIS from permanent shutdown. As he sets out to uncover who has been sabotaging the agency, his determination leads him to make the ultimate sacrifice.
Vance’s story comes to a tragic end as he gives his life to save NCIS– the agency he dedicated his life to protecting. Since his first appearance in season 5, Vance has been featured in nearly 400 episodes, making him an integral part of the show to date. The beloved character’s death signifies seismic changes as the agency is forced into uncharted territory without his guidance.
Rocky Carroll as Director Leon Vance (Photo by Robert Voets/CBS)
The Knockturnal attended a screening of the emotional episode, followed by a Q&A with Carroll. Reflecting on the creative process, he shared that the episode was crafted with great intentionality. Quoting executive producer Steven D. Binder, Carroll regarded the episode as “a love letter” to Vance’s legacy. This approach profoundly shaped the episode’s tone and narrative, lending it a nostalgic, sentimental feel. Carroll also remarked on the anticipation of the episode’s premiere, saying he expects it will “send shockwaves through the fanbase.”
Carroll also found contentment in knowing that Vance is “irreplaceable,” and that his legacy will live with the show: “There’s no replacing Leon…he’s become such an integral part of the show.” Though the change will be difficult, Carroll found solace in knowing that “regardless of what happens with the series, my character’s arc is complete.” “I would have loved to have been one of the characters who was there for the very last episode, when they board up the windows, and when they officially do say, ‘All right, it’s time for everybody to turn off the lights and go home.’ You’d like to be one of the last men standing…But after 18 seasons, I couldn’t have asked for more.”
When asked what he’ll miss most, Carroll described how his artistic passion defined his time with NCIS. “Over the last 18 years, this has been a constant for me….it was fun to go to work,” he reflected. He recalled the change being “very emotional” for the entire cast, given the close bond they have come to share. Carroll also expressed his gratitude for the role, noting that the role signified great advancement in his career and life. He also reflected on how this role helped fulfill his lifelong dreams of pursuing a career in acting. He recalled that this has been his dream “since [he] was 8 years old, looking up at the sky and saying, ‘this is what I want to do.’”
Carroll reassured fans that although his role will change, the show will remain a part of his life. “I’m still here…I’m still a part of the family,” he remarked. “Don’t worry, I’ll still be around,” the actor stated, hinting at the possibility of off-screen involvement.
Amid the show’s evolution, the 500th episode acts as both a celebration and a recalibration. It serves as a tribute to the show’s intricate history while leaving the door open for what comes next. As NCIS celebrates this milestone, it serves as a reminder that a show’s legacy is defined not only by its longevity but also by its impact. The sheer number of fans who have followed Vance’s journey and will feel the weight of his absence speaks to the impact the show carries.
The show may be facing significant change, but that legacy will prevail. And in true NCIS fashion, the story doesn’t end here. To find out what the next chapters hold, fans can watch new episodes on Tuesday nights at 8 PM ET/PT on CBS or stream the show on Paramount+.
