NCIS: Los Angeles returned with a new episode on October 30, 2022, but not all fans were pleased with what they saw. In Episode 4 of Season 14, titled “Dead Stick,” two beloved characters were noticeably missing from the action—Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah) and Marty Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen). The episode focused on the investigation of a plane crash, with the rest of the NCIS team taking center stage, but Kensi and Deeks’ absence left many viewers frustrated.
While the team worked to clear the name of Aiden Hanna, whose plane crashed and was suspected to be at fault, the absence of the fan-favorite couple left a void for many viewers. Fans quickly turned to social media to express their disappointment, questioning why the couple had been left out of the storyline. One fan expressed their frustration: “This season is getting really frustrating. Every week, half the cast seems to be missing. And when they’re there, the regular teams are not working together. What is going on?” Another viewer echoed similar sentiments, saying, “It’s a good episode, however leaving out main characters each week is getting old. The newer characters’ stories are weak. Sorry, but as a fan from episode one, losing @barrettfoa and @reneefelicesmith, Linda Hunt’s semi-retirement, and missing main characters each week is detrimental. Just an opinion.”
While these reactions were certainly understandable, it’s important to note that Kensi and Deeks’ absence doesn’t suggest they’re leaving the show. In fact, Marty Deeks is set to return in the promotional video for Episode 5, reassuring fans that the beloved couple will be back soon. Daniela Ruah, who plays Kensi, has also been busy behind the scenes, having directed several episodes of NCIS: LA during Season 13, which likely contributed to her limited screen time in this particular episode.
Despite their absence, fans remain hopeful that Kensi and Deeks will feature more prominently in upcoming episodes, especially as the season continues to unfold. As one viewer put it, “Good ep of NCIS: LA tonight (I liked the story with the three Hanna men) although I really missed having Deeks and Kensi around tonight. Hope they’re featured a lot next week to make up for this week! #NCISLA #Densi.”
Though Episode 4 was still well-received by many, the absence of such a central, beloved couple did not go unnoticed, and viewers are eager to see more of Kensi and Deeks in the coming episodes.
