The latest episode of NCIS featured an emotional tribute to Director Leon Vance following Rocky Carroll's departure from the series. The team gathered in Vance's office for a whiskey toast after solving a case involving ill Navy sailors. Parker led the remembrance, emphasizing the importance of not forgetting their fallen leader.
In season 23, episode 14 of NCIS, the team investigated Navy sailors falling ill after tattoos during Fleet Week. Subtle references throughout highlighted the recent loss of Director Leon Vance, killed in the line of duty in the previous month's 500th episode by a corrupt agent. Kasie, for instance, hesitated to update her computer, noting it was Vance's last approved upgrade. A young sailor's grief over his friend triggered Parker's decision to honor Vance after closing the case. Parker assembled the team in Vance's office, presenting a bottle of whiskey Vance had saved for a special occasion and seven glasses—one for each member plus an extra placed at Vance's empty chair. He said, “It just seems like the world would like nothing more than just to move on, you know? To forget. But the only way I know how to get through this is by remembering him. And there's no one I'd rather remember him with than you guys.” The group raised their glasses with the toast, “to Leon.” Rocky Carroll portrayed Vance since season 5, rising to director after Jenny Shepard's murder. Though his exit was not his choice, Carroll told TVLine, “That's a hell of a storyline. I think that's going to be really great.” He added, “I don't know what the end of 'NCIS' will ultimately be, but at least I feel like my character really kind of came full circle.” Showrunner Steven D. Binder aimed for a tribute, telling Carroll, “I want this to be a tribute and a love letter to your character. And I think that's what we accomplished.” Carroll, who has directed 28 episodes, will return behind the camera for the April 14 episode, “S.O.S.”