'NCIS' Teases Major Vance Storyline That Could Impact Everyone

The latest episode of NCIS, titled "God Only Knows", delves deeper into the ongoing investigation surrounding the death of Alden Parkers (Gary Cole) mother, while introducing a new storyline centered on Director Vance (Rocky Carroll).

Executive producer Steven D. Binder shared before the season premiered that Vance would return to a stricter, by-the-book leadership style, creating tension within the team. He explained, Vance is going to go back to his roots as a very by-the-book leader, and thats going to cause conflict with our characters. It will appear hes opposing the team, but hes actually protecting them.

In this episode, Vance intervenes during Parkers questioning of a chaplain, challenging him with, What are you thinking? You should have cleared this with me. Parker retorts, noting Vances usual advice: Tread lightly. Keep it low key. We dont need bad press. Vance calmly asserts that his instructions are for good reason, leaving Parker to reflect in silence.

Gary Cole commented on the tension between Parker and Vance, describing it as enjoyable to portray. He noted that the conflict is likely to persist due to larger agency matters, saying, Theres a lot of conflict going on with whos going to stay in power at certain agencies, and whether different agencies are going to change.

The episode primarily focuses on Parkers personal journey. Palmer (Brian Dietzen) informs him about inconsistencies surrounding his mothers death. The coroner noted acute trauma to the back of her head, which would not occur in a straightforward accident, suggesting foul play. Despite this, Parker is resistant to further investigation. He tells Palmer, I asked you to find my mothers grave. Thats it. I didnt ask for a federal case or to share this with the team. I wanted closure, not a new wound.

Throughout the investigation, Parker begins to open up to the chaplain. The chaplain, who had also arranged Parkers fathers burial at sea, encourages him to explore faith as a source of comfort, noting his sister found solace in prayer. Parker struggles with the concept, saying, I dont need your thoughts and prayers, though he is affected when a photo of his mother is discovered inside his fathers Bible.

By the episodes conclusion, Parker reconsiders and agrees to exhume his mothers body for further investigation. The chaplain advises him that answers often come from those around us, rather than miraculous signs, preparing Parker for difficult truths ahead.

This episode further develops the emotional arcs of Parker and Vance, leaving viewers eager to see how the investigations and leadership conflicts unfold.

Author: Sophia Brooks