AceShowbiz - Rocky Carroll is officially returning to NCIS, but not in the role fans might expect. Following the impactful death of NCIS Director Leon Vance during season 23, Carroll is set to come back behind the scenes as the director of the agency, rather than reprising his character on screen. This marks a significant shift for the long-running procedural, which is currently navigating a transitional phase after the departure of Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs.

The 2025-2026 TV season appears to be the final chapter in the ongoing reinvention of NCIS. Since Harmon’s exit, the show has undergone major changes to rebrand itself and maintain its audience. Season 23 has featured notable returns, such as Vera Strickland and Ellie Bishop, as well as celebrating its milestone 500th episode. However, the joyous occasion was tempered by the shocking death of Vance, a pivotal and emotionally charged moment for the series.

The death of Vance is considered one of the most powerful in the show's history. The writers crafted the storyline to honor his legacy, tapping into nostalgia while delivering a definitive end for the character. Unlike other shows where character deaths might be reversed, CBS appears committed to keeping Vance’s fate permanent, signaling a bold new direction for NCIS.

Despite Vance’s on-screen demise, Carroll remains closely tied to the series. Confirmed via NCISVerse on Instagram, the actor is back on the Navy Yard set, not as Vance but stepping into the director’s chair behind the camera. Carroll will direct season 23, episode 16, titled "S.O.S.," marking a continuation of his involvement in the show through his established role as a director.

Rocky Carroll is no stranger to directing episodes of NCIS. Throughout his two-decade tenure playing the agency director, he has frequently taken on directing duties. This new phase underscores his commitment to the series beyond acting, suggesting his directing role may continue even after his character’s story concludes. CBS has already greenlit the show’s return for next fall, leaving open questions about Carroll’s future contributions.

The episode "S.O.S." focuses primarily on a standalone case rather than advancing major season-long storylines. The plot centers on the MCRT team investigating the mysterious reappearance of a Navy lieutenant who vanished under suspicious circumstances. As the team unravels the truth behind a crash that appears intentional, each revelation leads to more twists. It remains unclear if the episode will address the ongoing search for Vance’s successor or delve into broader narrative consequences of his death.

While Mark Harmon reportedly opposed the decision to kill off Vance, Carroll has come to accept it after the initial surprise. His departure marks the end of an era for NCIS, but it also opens new storytelling possibilities for the show’s future. One such opportunity could involve Timothy McGee’s character potentially stepping up into a leadership role within the team.

For now, Carroll’s continued involvement as a director offers fans reassurance that his connection to NCIS remains strong. His dual roles as actor and director have been a hallmark of the series, and his return behind the camera demonstrates the show’s commitment to evolving while honoring its legacy.

As NCIS moves forward without Vance, the series faces the challenge of balancing fresh narratives with the rich history that long-time viewers cherish. The return of Carroll in a new capacity is a key piece in this transition, blending experience with innovation as the procedural prepares for its next chapter.

This article is based on reporting originally published by ScreenRant.