NCIS : Los Angeles concluded its impressive run in May 2023, wrapping up fourteen seasons and over 300 episodes, leaving the franchise with only two remaining series. In exciting news, Daniela Ruah, who portrayed Agent Kensi Blye throughout the entire series, is making a return to her beloved TV Universe.
This time, she will take on the role of director for two episodes of the remaining shows. Daniela Ruah expressed that this experience feels “like coming home,” highlighting her deep connection to the franchise.
Daniela Ruah is set to take the helm as director for an episode of NCIS Season 21 this month, with the episode scheduled to air in March. Additionally, she will direct an episode of NCIS : Hawai’i Season 3 in February, which is slated for an April release in the 2024 TV lineup.
In an interview with Deadline, the talented actress-turned-director shared her excitement about rejoining the NCIS Universe, “Kensi first appeared on NCIS 15 years ago, and returning to that set now as a director is truly a remarkable experience. Being surrounded by such a talented cast and crew is an incredible honor. I see so many familiar faces, people I deeply care about, and their warm welcome makes me feel right at home.”
Fans of the series will recall that the NCIS backdoor pilot from 2009 introduced Daniela Ruah alongside future NCIS : Los Angeles stars Chris O’Donnell, LL Cool J, and Barrett Foa.
Since then, she has directed six episodes of her own series, beginning in 2021 during Season 12, followed by five additional episodes in the subsequent two seasons. Although there are distinct differences between NCIS : Los Angeles and NCIS : Hawai’i, her extensive experience in this realm is undeniable.
Daniela Ruah shared her enthusiasm for returning to the NCIS Universe on Instagram, perfectly capturing her excitement with the ideal emojis for this opportunity that will take her to the beautiful Aloha State, “Get ready for some thrilling news! I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be directing an episode of #NCIS and #NCISHawaii this year! Keep your eyes peeled for updates… 🥰💥💥💥💥💥.”
The announcement of Daniela Ruah joining NCIS and its latest spinoff arrives just in time, as her NCIS Los Angeles co-star LL Cool J is set to return as Sam Hanna. He will rejoin Jane Tennant and the team in Hawai’i for the Season 3 premiere, following his unexpected cameo in the Season 2 finale, which aired just a day after NCIS : Los Angeles concluded its impressive 14-season journey.
LL Cool J will be featured as a recurring guest star this season, and one of the stars from Hawai’i is understandably thrilled about his return! The buzz surrounding LL Cool J’s appearance sparked curiosity about the possibility of other NCIS Los Angeles alumni making their way to NCIS Hawai’i, but who could have predicted that Daniela Ruah would step in as a director ?
Imagine the excitement of seeing Kensi make a cameo in the episode, especially after the series finale unveiled the thrilling news that Deeks and Kensi are expecting a baby. A Densi update would be the perfect way to follow up on that incredible revelation!
Regrettably, the series finale of NCIS : Los Angeles cannot be streamed with a Paramount+ subscription, unlike NCIS and NCIS: Hawai’i, which are readily available.
While you can enjoy the episodes from the three-part crossover of those two series, the experience feels lacking without the inclusion of NCIS : Los Angeles.
However, there’s good news on the horizon! Mark your calendars for February 12, when the remaining shows in the franchise will return, featuring NCIS Season 21 at 9 p.m. ET and NCIS : Hawai’i Season 3 at 10 p.m. ET, both airing on CBS.