AceShowbiz - Mark Harmon expressed strong feelings about a significant character death on NCIS, the CBS procedural that debuted in 2003 and has become a staple of network television. After more than two decades of portraying Leroy Jethro Gibbs, Harmon witnessed the series transition into a new era following Gibbs’ retirement in season 19. This period of reinvention has brought both challenges and successes, including fluctuations in viewership. The 2025-2026 TV season marked an important stage in the show’s evolution as it worked to redefine itself without its iconic lead.

In March 2026, NCIS celebrated a rare milestone with its 500th episode titled “All Good Things.” Expectations were high that this installment would stand out from the usual weekly stories. Beyond featuring a major case, the episode marked a pivotal moment in the series’ future by depicting the death of Director Leon Vance, a character played by Rocky Carroll Jr. While Carroll accepted his character’s demise, Harmon reportedly had a very different reaction when he learned of the plot development.

During a discussion for the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, Carroll shared insights about Harmon’s response to Vance’s death. According to Carroll, the actor was not enthusiastic about the decision and even suggested taking action to prevent the character’s exit. Carroll recalled, “He wasn’t as on board with the idea as I was. Let’s just put it that way. He just felt like, ‘Hey, man, what you brought to this role... almost two decades at this role.’ I think he was speaking from the heart, just like my other cast members too. They just like, ‘No, we don’t want this to happen! We don’t want this to end! What can we do to make this [go away]?’”

Carroll explained that his character’s response to Harmon’s sentiment was more accepting, stating, “I felt like the character who was talking to Vance. It’s like, ‘Come on, it is what it is, but it’s time to move on.’ And it’s a really good episode. It’s a good story. So, we’ve talked and he knows it’s like, ‘You’re going to live your life.’”

It is understandable why Harmon felt this way, given his long-standing association with the show. The death of a major character like Vance, who had been a mainstay through many seasons and storylines, signals a profound change for NCIS. Carroll’s character had become a central figure as the series navigated its transformation, making his departure particularly poignant.

Despite the sadness surrounding Vance’s death, critics and fans alike have praised “All Good Things” for its storytelling. The episode is regarded as one of the most creative and emotionally resonant installments in recent years. Many consider it the most fitting farewell for a character on NCIS, surpassing even the memorable retirement of Gibbs in Alaska. The episode’s impact is notable for its bold narrative choices and lasting consequences for the series’ future direction.

The loss of Vance not only changes the emotional landscape of NCIS but also sets up major plot developments for the show moving forward. The series has yet to depict Vance’s funeral, leaving open the possibility that future episodes may involve his family, a storytelling approach NCIS has used before to deepen emotional engagement.

Moreover, Vance’s death creates a vacancy at the helm of the agency within the show’s universe, prompting anticipation about who will assume the role of director next. This transition is expected to be a significant milestone as the series continues to evolve in its new era.

Alongside these developments, the departure of Rocky Carroll Jr. from the cast will have ripple effects on the Major Case Response Team (MCRT) and the dynamics among remaining characters. His absence will likely catalyze fresh storylines and challenges for the team, maintaining the procedural’s appeal while embracing change.

In summary, Mark Harmon’s reaction to the major character death in NCIS’s 500th episode reflects the deep connection and history he has with the show. While he was reluctant to accept Director Leon Vance’s fate, the episode has been widely praised for its narrative strength and significance. As NCIS moves forward without one of its longest-serving characters, fans can expect impactful stories that honor the past while charting a new course.