The departure of Leon Vance in NCIS episode 500 has sparked major speculation among fans about who will take over as the agency’s next director.
Timothy McGee is widely seen as the most natural successor, thanks to his years of experience and steady leadership. However, other exciting possibilities are also being discussed across the franchise.
Fan-favorite characters like Sam Hanna from NCIS: Los Angeles and Jane Tennant from NCIS: Hawai‘i have emerged as potential candidates who could step into the leadership role.
Executive producer Steven D. Binder noted that replacing major characters is always possible—if handled carefully. With that in mind, the decision over Vance’s successor could become one of the most pivotal storylines in the next chapter of the series.