TMDb/NCIS TV Rocky Carroll bids farewell as NCIS Director Vance in the emotional 500th episode. Discover his unique viewing experience and the end of an 18-year era. April 1, 2026 AceShowbiz - NCIS fans witnessed a poignant moment with the departure of Rocky Carroll as Director Leon Vance in the series' milestone 500th episode, aired on March 24. Carroll, who has portrayed Vance since 2008, experienced a unique farewell to his character, one that caught many viewers by surprise due to its emotional weight and narrative significance.