‘NCIS’ Celebrates Rocky Carroll’s Birthday as Fans Hope Leon Vance Could Return in Season 24

Rocky Carroll may no longer suit up as Leon Vance on NCIS, but the longtime star is still getting plenty of love from the franchise—and its fans.

To celebrate Carroll’s 63rd birthday on July 8, the official NCIS social media accounts shared a handful of behind-the-scenes photos from his time on set alongside a heartfelt message: “It’s a good day for a Rocky Carroll appreciation post. Happy birthday to a dear friend of ours! 🎉🎉.”

The tribute quickly drew a flood of birthday wishes from viewers, many of whom made it clear they’re still hoping Carroll isn’t finished with the hit CBS procedural.

“Happy birthday, Rocky! Keep blessing us with your amazing talent! 🎂 🥂 🙏✨️🤲🏼👏😍 🎥 🙌🔥,” one fan wrote.

Another commented, “🎂🎉🎈Happy Birthday, Rocky! Still miss you on the show but good to see you behind the scenes.”

A third added, “Happy birthday to this fabulous actor. We love you Rocky ❤️.”

Carroll wrapped up his run as NCIS Director Leon Vance during the show’s emotional 23rd season after the beloved character was killed off, ending an impressive tenure that spanned nearly two decades. While Vance’s death marked the close of a major chapter for the series, the show has already shown that departed characters can continue to shape the story through flashbacks and dream sequences.

With NCIS set to return for Season 24 this fall, fans are naturally wondering whether Carroll could pop back up—even if Vance remains officially dead.

The actor certainly hasn’t ruled it out.

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter in March, Carroll revealed he’ll remain involved with the franchise behind the camera after being invited back to direct next season. As for another on-screen appearance, he suggested anything is possible in the NCIS universe.

“Oh, that remains to be seen,” he said. “Not only will I still watch the show; I’ll still be part of it. I’ve been asked to come back and direct next season, even though my character is dead. But we also have coined the term ‘ghost stars.’ We have more characters who have been killed off who come back as apparitions and spirits. And we do flashbacks, where people have died long ago are very significant. So I wouldn’t be surprised [if] Vance might be more prevalent dead than he was when he was alive.”

Whether Vance returns as a “ghost star,” appears in flashbacks, or Carroll simply stays behind the camera, it doesn’t sound like his relationship with NCIS is ending anytime soon. Judging by the birthday tribute—and the reaction it sparked—fans would be more than happy to welcome him back in whatever form that takes.