Rocky Carroll is an accomplished actor and director known for his strong presence in both television and film. With a career spanning decades, Carroll has portrayed many memorable characters and gained recognition for his exceptional talent. Most famously, he has been a key part of one of TV’s longest-running shows, steadily rising in prominence as both an actor and a director.
But how did he carve out such an impressive legacy in Hollywood? And what are some of his key achievements that have made him a household name? Ingrain yourself in knowledge as you read this piece.
Rocky Carroll biography
Roscoe “Rocky” Carroll was born on July 8, 1963, in Cincinnati, in the U.S. state of Ohio. He grew up in a vibrant community that encouraged creativity and the arts. From a young age, he showed a passion for acting and performance, which led him to attend the School for Creative and Performing Arts. He graduated from this school in 1981.
Furthermore, Carroll went to The Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University in St. Louis, where he obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree. His time at university deepened his understanding of acting and storytelling. In 2009, he received an honorary degree from his alma mater which recognised his contributions to the arts.
Standing at about 6 feet (183 cm) tall, he has a strong presence both on and off the screen. Beyond his impressive stature, he has a diverse background that influences his work and perspective in the entertainment industry.
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Rocky Carroll career
Carroll first made his mark in the theatre scene, where he developed a strong foundation in performing arts. He participated in Joe Papp’s acclaimed New York Shakespeare Festival, where he helped to break barriers for actors of colour by taking on non-traditional roles in classic plays.
Carroll’s breakthrough came in the late 1980s when he was introduced to the works of playwright August Wilson. His involvement in Wilson’s critically acclaimed play, The Piano Lesson, was a significant milestone in his career. The play won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and Carroll’s performance earned him nominations for both a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award.
In 1991, Carroll landed a role in the FOX comedy-drama Roc, where he portrayed Joey Emerson. The show, which ran until 1994, allowed him to showcase his comic talents and his dramatic abilities. His performance was well-received and helped establish him as a familiar face on television.
He then joined the cast of the CBS medical drama, Chicago Hope, from 1994 to 2000, where he played Dr. Keith Wilkes. The series was known for its engaging storylines and strong ensemble cast and Carroll’s portrayal of the compassionate and skilled doctor resonated with audiences.
Carroll continued to make guest appearances on various popular television shows, including Law & Order, The West Wing and Grey’s Anatomy.
In 2008, Carroll joined the cast of NCIS as Leon Vance, initially appearing in a recurring role before being promoted to a main character in the following season. Vance, who serves as the Director of the NCIS, is a pivotal character in the series. Carroll’s portrayal of Vance is marked by a commanding presence and depth, making him a fan-favourite among viewers.
Carroll’s connection to NCIS extended beyond the original series. He reprised his role in the spin-offs NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans, further solidifying his association with this popular franchise. His work on NCIS has not only earned him critical acclaim but also allowed him to direct several episodes, starting in 2015. His directorial debut came with the Season 12 episode titled: “We Build, We Fight,” demonstrating his growth and ability to take on leadership roles both in front of and behind the camera.
He has appeared in various other films, including Born on the Fourth of July, Crimson Tide and Yes Man.
Rocky Carroll movies
Below is a list of some of the movies and TC series that Carroll has starred in thus far:
- NCIS – Leon Vance, 2008–2024
- NCIS Season 20 Unforgettable – Leon Vance, 2023
- NCIS: Hawai’i – Leon Vance (uncredited), 2022
- The Cinnamon Bear: A Holiday Adventure – The Narrator, 2021
- Reign of the Supermen – Perry White (voice), 2019
- The Death of Superman – Silas Stone (voice), 2018
- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Sonny Lacks, 2017
- NCIS: New Orleans – Leon Vance, 2014
- NCIS: Los Angeles – Leon Vance, 2009–2014
- Blue – Robert, 2014
- Justice League: War – Silas Stone (voice), 2014
- Glenn Martin DDS – Various (voice), 2011
- Yes Man – Wes, 2008
- The Line-Up – 2007
- Grey’s Anatomy – James Miller, 2007
- The Game – Kenny Taylor / Coach T, 2006–2007
- Prisoner – Studio Executive, 2007
- The Line-Up – Sean Tyler, 2006
- W.I.T.C.H. – Bitteroot, Jerry (voice), 2006
- Invasion – Healy, 2005–2006
- The IT Crowd – Denham, 2006
- Bobby Cannon – 2005
- Spider-Man 2 – Additional Voices (voice), 2005
- Kevin Hill – Tony Banks, 2005
- American Dreams – Reverend Kingston Davis, 2004–2005
- Boston Legal – A.D.A. John Shubert, 2004
- Father of the Pride – Chaz (voice), 2004
- Spider-Man 2 – Additional Voices (voice), 2004
- ER – Mr. Walker, 2004
- The Agency – Carl Reese, 2001–2003
- Welcome to New York – Adrian Spencer, 2000–2001
- Family Law – U.S. Attorney Skidmore, 2001
- The West Wing – Corey Sykes, 2001
- The Ladies Man – Cyrus Cunningham, 2000
- Chicago Hope – Dr. Keith Wilkes, 1996–2000
- Best Laid Plans – Bad Ass Dude, 1999
- Hercules – Hylas (voice), 1998
- Early Edition – Dr. Keith Wilkes, 1998
- Five Desperate Hours – Lt. Frank Early, 1997
- Gargoyles – Talon, Glasses, Derek Maza (voice), 1994–1996
- The Great White Hype – Artemus St. John Saint, 1996
- High Incident – Jerry White, 1996
- Siegfried & Roy: Masters of the Impossible – (voice), 1996
- Fantastic Four: The Animated Series – Triton (voice), 1995–1996
- Crimson Tide – Lt. Westergaurd, 1995
- Where on Earth Is Carmen Sandiego? – (voice), 1994
- Roc – Joey Emerson, 1991–1994
- The Chase – Byron Wilder, 1994
- Gabriel Knight: Sins of the Fathers – Willy Walker (voice), 1993
- Prelude to a Kiss – Tom, 1992
- Fathers & Sons – Flo, 1992
- American Experience – James Gooding (voice), 1991
- Law & Order – Dr. Davids, 1990
- MacGyver – Undercover Police Officer (uncredited), 1990
- Born on the Fourth of July – Willie, 1989
- Money, Power, Murder. – Dwan, 1989
- The Last Prom – Classmate, 1980
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Rocky Carroll’s net worth
Carroll’s net worth is estimated to be around $4 million, as of 2023. He has built his wealth primarily through his successful acting career, which includes notable roles in television series, such as ER, where he played Dr. Peter Benton, and NCIS, where he portrays Leon Vance.
Rocky Carroll family
Carroll is the son of a father who worked as a police officer and a mother who was a homemaker. Carroll has a close relationship with his family, which has been a source of support throughout his career.
Carroll is married to actress and producer, Gina Carroll. The couple tied the knot in 1996 and has a daughter named Esme. The family maintains a low profile, focusing on their private life away from the public eye.
Carroll often expresses gratitude for his family’s support, which has played a significant role in his success as an actor.
Rocky Carroll age
Rocky Carroll was born on July 8, 1963. He is 61 years old as of 2024
Rocky Carroll now
Rocky Carroll has remained an active presence in the entertainment industry, continuing to solidify his role as a key player in NCIS. As of 2024, he is still a main cast member on the long-running series, where he portrays Leon Vance, the Director of NCIS. This role, which he has held since 2008, is one of his most iconic performances, keeping him at the forefront of television.
Beyond acting, he has also directed several episodes of NCIS.
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