A recent fan poll has stirred up lively debate across the NCIS community, revealing that 24% of viewers voted one particular character as the least likable of all time—and the results may surprise you. While some expected a side character or short-lived villain to take the title, fans pointed their fingers at Director Leon Vance, played by Rocky Carroll. Despite his long tenure and major role in the show’s leadership, many fans say he never quite won their hearts.

Some of the criticism revolves around Vance’s early days on the show, when his arrival shook up the team dynamic following Jenny Shepard’s death. “He always felt too cold and distant,” one fan commented. Others noted that while he grew more sympathetic over time, his no-nonsense style and rigid decisions often put him at odds with fan-favorite characters like Gibbs and Tony.

However, the poll results don’t tell the whole story. Plenty of fans came to Vance’s defense, saying his tough leadership was essential in keeping NCIS grounded, especially during chaotic investigations and agency shakeups. “He’s not supposed to be everyone’s friend,” one viewer argued, “he’s the boss, and he played that role perfectly.”

Still, the fact that a mainstay like Vance topped this list shows just how passionate the NCIS fanbase remains. Love him or not, his impact on the series is undeniable—and his complex character arc continues to spark discussion long after the credits roll.