Rocky Carroll, known for his role as Director Vance on NCIS, recently opened up about why the show has endured for so long and how the cast’s work ethic has played a significant role in its success. In an interview with PEOPLE, Carroll highlighted the rare atmosphere on set, where guest stars often recognize the special bond among the cast and crew. Despite the show’s longevity, Carroll emphasized that the focus remains on the work itself, with little time spent celebrating milestones.
Reflecting on the 1,000th episode, which aired on April 15, Carroll described the subdued atmosphere during filming, noting that the cast maintained their usual blue-collar approach to work. While the episode was a significant milestone for the series, there was no grand celebration on set, aside from a luncheon organized by CBS.
The 1,000th episode paid tribute to the show’s legacy with Easter eggs and special guest appearances, including Joe Spano, Daniela Ruah from NCIS: LA, and Vanessa Lachey from NCIS: HAWAI’I. Wilmer Valderrama, who plays Nick Torres on NCIS, expressed awe at being part of such a monumental achievement and emphasized the importance of honoring the original cast.
Carroll also highlighted the evolution of the show’s characters over the years, attributing this aspect to its ongoing success. He praised the producers and writers for allowing the characters to grow and change, navigating through various challenges and life experiences.
Actor Brian Dietzen, who portrays medical examiner Jimmy Palmer, echoed Carroll’s sentiments in a discussion with Entertainment Weekly. Dietzen expressed his excitement for the 1,000th episode milestone and shared his admiration for the camaraderie among the cast and crew, which he believes resonates with viewers.
Overall, both Carroll and Dietzen emphasized the enduring appeal of NCIS, rooted in its strong work ethic, character development, and dedication to storytelling.
