Who Will Be New ‘NCIS’ Director After Vance’s Shocking Death?
What To Know
- After Director Leon Vance’s shocking death in NCIS‘s 500th episode, the agency needs a new director.
- Here are four theories about how the CBS drama could handle the vacant seat.
We’ll admit that we hate to think about the day that someone else is sitting in the chair in Leon Vance’s (Rocky Carroll) office on NCIS, but someone does have to fill the role of director of the agency after he was tragically killed in the milestone 500th episode in Season 23.
The preview for the March 31 episode, the one immediately after, shows the team toasting Vance’s empty desk. So, who will be the next one to sit at it? Whoever it is, that’s part of them moving forward, and executive producer Steven D. Binder told TV Insider that’s part of what comes next.
“The team will be grieving, of course. But we felt it important that, at the end of the [500th] episode, the team is just as focused on Vance’s sacrifice as they are their loss. Vance died to protect them all. And they are going to honor that by putting one foot in front of the other, and just continuing on their mission to protect and safeguard their country,” he said.
Below, we take a look at four possibilities for who will be the next NCIS director.
Timothy McGee
Chances are this won’t happen just yet, but we do think that before the series ends or even in the eventual finale (the series has already been renewed for Season 24), we will see McGee as NCIS director. It’s come up before, and as Vance noted to who ended up being the Angel of Death, “McGee’s destined to lead.” Vance would want him in his office.
In fact, Carroll told us while discussing the 1000th episode in 2024 that’s what Vance wants “many, many years from now.” (If only the chair wasn’t left vacant so soon.)
!['NCIS': Will [Spoiler] Be Back After Shocking Death in 500th Episode?](https://www.tvinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ncis-2211-torres-vance-knight-234x155.jpg)
“McGee is one of the original members,” Carroll continued, noting that he was on the show before Vance. (Murray debuted in Season 1, and Carroll joined in Season 5.) “He’s seen his evolution, he’s seen his growth. As opposed to being sort of the foil to DiNozzo [Michael Weatherly], he knows that there’s a level of maturity that he possessed. And over the years, he’s grown. He’s a husband, he’s a father, he understands responsibility more. I think Vance sees a lot of himself in McGee — family man, kids. I think that’s why he thinks that if the time, whenever that time comes, McGee could be the one to fill that chair because he understands what it means to be sort of the provider and how to run a family.”
A past NCIS cast member
It would be shocking if, after saying goodbye to Rocky Carroll’s Vance, a familiar face returns to help lead and guide the agency through its new chapter, even just for a short arc. Imagine Tony or Ziva coming back to the States to help, even in an unofficial capacity. Or Jennifer Esposito reprising her role as Alex Quinn.
Someone new
This could eventually lead to McGee taking the role, but we could also see NCIS bringing in a (big) guest star to recur as the new director who may or may not have a hidden agenda — it could go either way, with this person someone the team has to take down or simply someone there to help with the transition after their loss. This person also could just be new to viewers but have a connection to one of the team members. After all, following Tom Morrow (Alan Dale) was Jenny Shepard (Lauren Holly), who had a history with Gibbs (Mark Harmon), and Vance succeeded her and had known Gibbs as well.
Someone from another NCIS show
There are plenty of people to pull from across the franchise. Imagine Scott Bakula reprising his NCIS: New Orleans role as Dwayne Pride even just for a few episodes. Or LL Cool J‘s Sam Hanna (NCIS: LA) or Vanessa Lachey‘s Jane Tennant (NCIS: Hawai’i) stepping in to help. A familiar face might make it easier on the team as they continue to grieve.
Or imagine the twist if an older Lala (Mariel Molino on NCIS: Origins) showed up and that‘s how we learn what happened to her. However, since what happens to her and why Gibbs has never spoken about her is a big mystery on the prequel, something tells us that would never happen. Executive producers David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal both confirmed that’s why she couldn’t appear in the present-day of the NCIS crossover; Bobby Moynihan and Ely Henry were aged up with makeup to play older versions of Woody and Phil, and Roma Maffia reprised her role as Vera Strickland (Diany Rodriguez on Origins) in the event.
Who do you think should be the next NCIS director? Let us know in the comments section below.
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Oh.. There is only one thing to go to.. Leroy Jethro Gibbs..a great way for a cameo and you satisfy the number of fans begging to see him back in the main show.. Even if just for a short arc..🙏🙏🙏🙏
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Amen. Come on Back Gibbs.
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Yes, Mark Harmon. The only one that makes since. GIBBS!
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I think Gibbs should come back for a short arc to convince McGee he should take the job.
WIN! WIN!
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I think McGee is perfect, he has filled in several times and has great charisma with the team if from aother show, Scott Bakula or LL Cool J would be awesomr
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If McGee does not want the position of Director then either Pride or Hanna would be perfect for the role as they both worked well together when they had merged for spinoffs.
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H
Scott bakula tried being in office didn't work. The director has to be a boss someone who's going to be in charge not join the team
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G
The obvious choice is Hetty Lange
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G
Mcgee is best where he is. The name at the top in this show is Gibbs and should always be above his team as the leader. Plots don't need to deviate the course but they do need to evolve. Everyone has at least two favorite characters and ones always gonna be Gibbs and then whoever the other is. The show started with Gibbs and should end with Gibbs!
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I wish they would leave my show alone. I'm still not over losing Gibbs. I can't see Gibbs coming back and he's not the type to sit behind a desk. Parker would work I guess, making McGee the lead. I've never been fond of Parker replacing Gibbs but he might do well as the new director. That would bring another new face to the team. I thought Vance was good in his roll and wish they would just leave things alone. If they keep messing with things I'll just quit watching.
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M
I think McGee as permanent but have tenant or pride as interim. When McGee takes the chair Vance’s daughter becomes the new probie. Which would allow for Flash backs of her father.
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M
She' been an NCIS agent for a few years now. She wouldn't be a problem anymore, just another transfer. She would be a great fit for the team, though.
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Probie, not problem.
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T
I think LL Cool Jay would be great. I would have loved to see Chris O’Donnell but unfortunately he is on 911.
McGee is another who would be great.
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M
I would have loved to see Chris O' Donnell as well, but I also thought about LL Cool J or Michael Weatherly.
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If they would pull someone from the NCIS universe, I would like to see either Scott Backula or LL Cool Jay. If someone new, Morris Chestnut since it looks like Watson will not be renewed or Boris Kujoe.
Just not Vanessa Lachey. Ugh!!
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I Morris Chestnut they need to be an authority fi
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Vanessa would be good. Dwayne Pride is only interesting if he's in New Orleans. He's really pretty one note.
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McGee
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I can see some interim people filling in for the rest of the season - Greg German did that in Season 10 when Vance was on bereavement leave - while they search for a new director. Based on something said in an earlier interview, that McGee was going to finally get a promotion, I think it has to be McGee.
And don't hate me for saying this, but DiNozzo would never be able to secure clearance.
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I think Jane Tennant could be a good fit to help fill the spot for the time being. They know her and would be able to work with him through their losing Vance. But the best person to put in would be Gibbs! He could get McGee ready to take over the agency! Who better than Gibbs to get McGee ready, he is McGee's mentor! I don't think Gibbs would come back, but nice thought. Tennant never had a chance to shine and she wouldn't try to replace Vance, she would be her own leader!
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J
That's easy. If you are not giving the job to McGee, and you are not bringing Gibbs back...then, give the job to Harmon Rabb Jr or Sarah MacKenzie
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S
If they were to bring in a character from another NCIS show, I think Kensi Blye from NCIS: LA would be a good candidate. I seem to remember that Assistant Director Granger once remarked that he thought Kensi could do his job one day. Perhaps after the events of the NCIS: LA series finale she rose through the ranks, taking over as Operations Manager of OSP along the way to making Assistant Director herself. It would also open up the possibility of Marty Deeks (and their kids!) making guest appearances. Three years (roughly) since the finale of NCIS: LA could be a short tenure as Asst. Director before becoming Director, but maybe in-universe SecDef wants to shake things up a bit.
Or if Daniela Ruah doesn't want to make a long-term commitment, maybe she serves as interim Director for a few episodes while SecDef looks for someone (McGee?) to fill the role long-term.
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They need an authority figure not another team member unless McGee becomes Director then they need a team member. Otherwise it would degrading McGee
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I love NCIS and watched from the very first episode. If they bring ANYONE from the other NCIS run off as in LA, Hawaii, or New Orleans as new leader, I will not longer watch!!!.
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Tim's about the best choice from my POV.
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D
Bringing Tony back would be interesting but McGee is a solid choice
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Dwayne Pride would be good.. He could contact Gibbs about the death and maybe get a cameo.. Would satisfy fans wanting to see Gibbs again.. Buy probably just wishful thinking..
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His acting seems forced. Not authentic. New Orleans and LA, didn’t have flow.
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I didn’t want Vance to leave. So I can’t think of a replacement right now. Maybe it was a dream!!!
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If not Gibbs ..McGee
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McGee is not ready. He should have Gibbs job first, not just jump over it. Gibbs hates paper work and has bucked the system in the job before. He is not a desk person. Ziva would be wasted behind a desk too. Jenny Sheppard would be a good choice, already been there done that. I would go with her. Pride would maybe fit the bill too. Tony is too immature to be director and you really can't have him without Ziva. Gibbs needs a better storyline and be more adjusted and at peace too. I could think of a few stories for him to pop up from Alaska. He and Ziva could get into something with Tonys help. Would be nice to see Fornell with him too. I hope Gibbs turns up for Vances funeral, its a must. He didn't come to Duckys and he should have.
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You do realize that Jenny was killed at the end of season 5? Part of the last storyline? So you can't go with her.
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Ai slop
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Gerald McRaney as Admiral Hollace Kilbride from NCIS: LA
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I would move Parker to director and give McGhee Parker's position.
5
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F
Gibbs comes back to do a cameo and eventually it goes to Tim McGee. Vance said it himself
“McGee was born to lead”
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Not LL Cool J
Tired of the Sam Hanna character reappearing. Move on.
5
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L
I think Tony and Ziva could come back to the states, and Tony would be great at Director. His character has matured being a father and head of a security firm. Plus he did take over when Gibbs was in Mexico and retired.
I THINK IT IS A WIN FOR ALL INVOLVED. CBS, PARAMOUNT PLUS.
AND ESPIECALLY FOR MICHAEL WEATHERLY, WHO HAS BROUGHT SO MUCH TO THE MOTHERSHIP.....
AND TO BRING COTE BACK AS ZIVA
AND TALI TOO. MCGEE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE THEM BACK, AND MCGEE CAN SPEND TIME WITH HIS SON HE DID NOT KNOW HE HAD.
I SEE SEASONS OF NCIS TO EXCEL TO 35 OR MORE....
CBS AND PARAMOUNT PLUS WILL MAKE ALOT OF MONEY VIEWER
SHIP WILL GO UP FOR THE FRANCISHE.
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No the dynamics would change too much, McGee would be thrown back into his probee days ziva and Tony moved on. So Mc Gee or someone.
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Best option. The invisible Hetty from LA.
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Bring Tony back .
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Can't believe they killed Vance off, shocking
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Ok..McGee becomes a working boss..I worked 40 years in law enforcement.my last10 as det Sgt who oversaw all cases and also worked them. All he would need is an executive assistant for day to day duties. He would also have sec nav overseeing as well
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What about Fornell
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Gibbs is the logical answer. Perfect spot and way to bring Gibbs back without upsetting the line up. He wouldn’t have to appear in NC every episode so he could be semi- retired in real Life. There is an opportunity here. Don’t waste it.
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LL Cool J's character
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B
I think someone else needs to be director for a while. McGee needs to be team lead before he moves into the director chair.
As for who for the time being I really don't have a anyone in mind. I just watched the episode last night so still processing the loss of Vance.
I do think if if could be some one who has a connection to the series would be nice, not necessary someone from the other teams.
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I really like Jane Tennant, could see her in the role. Wise good communicator, loyal
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Gibbs for a few episodes as he hands it to McGee.
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McGee. No doubt about it!
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I vote for LL COOL J
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I have watched NCIS from very beginning.
I watched JAG, from which begat NCIS.
I afore Sean Murray's Timothy McGhee, but like him where he is, or in Harmon's old role.
As Director we wouldn't see much of McGhee.
Wouldn't like that. For Director, how about David James Elliott from JAG.
Would love to see him every week!!
Keep up the GREAT QUALITY FOR WHICH NCIS IS KNOWN!!
GOD BLESS YOU EVERYONE!!!!
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C
I miss Gibbs also. Nobody can play the part of Gibbs like Mark Harmon
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Mark Harmon is handsome
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B
I just let the show and the characters take me to wherever they want to go. I enjoy all the episodes and the characters.
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I would love to see Sam Hanba back
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L
I am still not over losing Gibbs and now Vance. But in my opinion, I believe LL Cool J would be a good interim director!
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Mimi Rogers
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LL COOL JAY
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P
They should bring Gibbs back and as director that would be awesome.
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D
Ok hear me out
CBS should - could bring back Tom Seleck former NY police commissioner Frank Reagan Blue Bloods a lifelong police officer with the experience of leading the largest PD in the nation . If only for a season or two due to his age he could take the job with that understanding.
Just a thought
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J
McGee would be my first choice. I would also love to see Scott Bakula but his character is not the desk type. So the next choice would be someone we know like LL Cool J, Vanessa Lachey or Maria Bello!
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A
Not McGee. The team is awesome. I say Gibbs should come back!
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J
I don’t see how Ziva could be NCIS Director (even interim) since she’s an Israeli citizen. But she could re-join the team as an investigator while Tony or McGee is Interim Director). Let Gibbs stay in the background with occasional cameos.
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T
Ziva became an American citizen.
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M
Is Heidi from NCIS LA still alive? She would be a great director.
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T
Gibbs for sure!!!
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H
Anyone but Parker.
1
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T
Pretty much what I'm thinking of. (though, I'd more like it if someone from LA were to come in, even if it's just for a bit)
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G
Gibbs
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B
I think McGee is the best solid choice. But… I’d love if it was LL Cool J!!!! Lots of ladies would tune in to see him for sure! ( I miss Vance already.)
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K
Gibbs ...it's that simple
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M
McGee should be the director
1
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N
Olivia Benson
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😂
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I think Gibbs would make a great director.
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Rando
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Gibbs
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C
I agree 100% Bring Gibbs back
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I think McGee should be the new director. He held that position for a short time before and did a super job. Tony or Siva I do not feel would work. LL COOL J has signed with NCIS NEW YORK. McGee is older now and more experianced. As far replacing a team member it could come from any of the other NCIS shows that have been cancelled.
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Nell from NCIS LA she was trained by NCIS Director guru Hetty Lange
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F
Hetty is also a good option imo.
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W
LLCoolJ would be good or Vanessa Lachey. Tom Selleck is available and he needs the work, gotta pay for his ranch!
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A
even if only for a brief period..... LeRoy Jethro Gibbs
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A
Even if only for a short period of time: LeRoy Jethro Gibbs......
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I think that Sean Murray,(Tim McGee) should get the job; He knows the jog, because he has filled in, as temp. director. NCIS needs a change and McGee is it. There is your new director.
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C
I would like to see one of the OG’s like Backula or LL or any of the others to reinforce the franchise and the family themes
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C
Jessica Knights Father becoming the new Director, could potentially make for some new riveting episodes.
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C
I'd say Russell Wong as Special Agent in Charge Feng Zhao turned Director of NCIS
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T
I do think McGee is the obvious choice but would really like to see DiNozzo come back.
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S
I think it should be Gibbs or McGee although I would love to see Heddy in the role.
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G
What if Hetty returns?!?!
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L
Bring back Gibbs (Mark Harmon) as the director
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J
I think they should bring Gibbs back as director
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M
I think Di Nozzo would be a good choice or one of the others mentioned from other NCIS shows. I thought about Scott Bakula as well although LL Cool J could be a possibiltiy.
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Dwayne pride
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Tim could do it because he's filled in before. Gibbs and Parker - NO - As much as we love them, they are loose cannons. We need another woman at the helm. JANE TENNANT
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V
Maybe hire Catherine Bell as Director. That would sort of bring the show back to its roots, since NCIS was a spin-off of JAG.
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Hetty
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idk I think Tony should be the director (maybe im just biased because I want him back along with ziva since their show was not the greatest spinoff)
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I
Gibs or pride
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E
End the show after this season. They got rid of the essential characters thru death. It's no longer watchable.
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A
What is wrong with you? This episode aired two days ago, and you put that major spoiler in the headline on your TV Insider daily newsletter? Some people haven't watched it yet, and might not have known about Vance. I know some people catch up on their shows on the weekend, and yet this came out on Friday morning!
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C
I think that Agent McGee should become the director, since he was great at his short time as acting director, was considered and passed over as assistant director and just ready for that role as the head of the agency.
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N
McGee is the right person to take Vance's place. Gibbs is the second person can fit in Vance's chair.
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Leroy Jethro Gibbs, of course
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Gibbs
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J
Harmon Rabbit Jr, Mac, or Bud Roberts. Those are the only people it should be.
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J
Stupid autocorrect
Rabb*
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G
How about Admiral Chegwidden?
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SAM HANNA
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D
It would be great to have Mr. Gibbs back again..
👍👍👏👏👍👍
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N
You’ve messed the show up beyond repair.
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F
It has to be McGee... He's already proven his chops by serving very competently as acting Director and was a finalist for Deputy Director. He's earned it fair and square.
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P
I think McGee. He deserves the promotion and has been with NCIS since the beginning
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S
Gibbs. AKA Rule 15 and 35! Perfect fit this situation! Maybe an interim to maybe get McGee a solid start to lead with coaching!
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B
Bring Tony Dinozzo back
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D
McGee is the only teal choice.
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C
PLEASE PLEASE come back Leroy Jethro Gibbs!!!!!!!!!
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H
It has to be gibbs
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It should definitely be Mark Harmon. No one could fill that spot better than Leroy Jethro Gibbs! NOBODY!!
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C
#1 Gibbs, or #2 Pride
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M
McGee is the logical choice, he is the more down to earth of all the agents. Tony has been gone to long, but would have been a fit too
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J
I think the next NCIS director should be Gibbs, or Lala.
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S
Lt. Mann should fill in
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