In the wake of the series finale of “NCIS: Los Angeles,” showrunner R. Scott Gemmill opened up about crafting a satisfying conclusion for the long-running spin-off, which concluded after 14 seasons and 323 episodes. The finale, titled “New Beginnings, Part 2,” focused not just on tying up loose ends in a final case, but on ensuring each character found their own version of a “happily ever after.”
Character-Centric Closure
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Gemmill explained that the plotline—a mission involving an undercover ATF agent and an arms-dealing ring—was secondary to the emotional arcs of the characters. “It was just about going character by character and figuring out what they’ve been through, what they deserve, and what we’d like to see for the future,” he said. The finale saw Callen (Chris O’Donnell) opting for a small courthouse wedding with Anna (Bar Paly) instead of a grand ceremony, while Kensi (Daniela Ruah) and Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen) received life-changing news about their impending parenthood.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
The atmosphere on set during the last day of filming was emotional. Gemmill noted that the long duration of the series had fostered deep connections among the cast and crew, many of whom had been together since the beginning. “When you see grown men, tough, tough men coming up to you crying, you’ve done something right,” he reflected. The crew’s bond was evident, making the conclusion all the more poignant.
A Nod to the Past and Future
The finale also allowed for reunions with beloved characters from earlier seasons, showcasing the show’s legacy. As Callen and Hanna (LL Cool J) prepared to embark on a new adventure in Morocco to find Hetty (Linda Hunt), the closing scene hinted at continued possibilities for the characters’ futures. Gemmill expressed a desire to leave fans with hope: “If you’ve invested that much time in watching a show, you want to leave in a satisfied state.”
Looking Ahead
As “NCIS: Los Angeles” bids farewell, the NCIS franchise continues to thrive, with the original “NCIS” series and “NCIS: Hawaii” still airing, as well as an upcoming “NCIS: Sydney.” Though the spin-off is ending, the legacy of the characters and their stories will resonate with fans for years to come.
In a bittersweet reflection on his time with the series, Gemmill emphasized the importance of family within the crew. “It was a great, great run. I’m sad it’s over,” he said, leaving viewers and cast alike with cherished memories from a beloved show.
