As NCIS: Los Angeles gears up for its highly anticipated 15th season, fans are buzzing with excitement after news broke that an original star from the show may be considering a return. With the show approaching a milestone season, the idea of a familiar face rejoining the team has sparked renewed interest in the franchise. But who is this original star, and what could their return mean for the series going forward?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the potential return of this original cast member, explore why their comeback would be a game-changer, and discuss what it could mean for the future of NCIS: Los Angeles.
1. Who is the Original NCIS: Los Angeles Star Considering a Return?
For longtime fans of NCIS: Los Angeles, there’s no question that the show’s success has been built on the strength of its original characters. Over the years, several actors have become synonymous with the show, but there’s one particular star who is now hinting at a return to the franchise: Linda Hunt, who portrays the beloved character Hetty Lange.
Hetty Lange, the wise and enigmatic operations manager of the NCIS Los Angeles office, has been a central figure on the show since its very first episode. Known for her sharp wit, unmatched intelligence, and tough leadership style, Hetty has earned the respect of both her colleagues and the audience. Her presence on the team has always been felt, even when she wasn’t physically present on screen.
2. Hetty Lange’s Role and Why Her Return Would Be Significant
Hetty Lange’s role has always been integral to the team, not just as a leader, but also as a mentor. She provided invaluable guidance to the team members, including Callen (Chris O’Donnell), Sam (LL Cool J), and Kensi (Daniela Ruah). Hetty was also the glue that held the team together during their most challenging times, offering them wisdom and support.
Her sharp leadership and no-nonsense attitude helped shape the dynamic of the team, and her absence over the past few seasons has been noticeable. Hetty’s potential return in Season 15 would not only bring a fan-favorite character back to the forefront but also have a significant impact on the show’s direction. Her return could provide a sense of stability and reintroduce some of the deeper, more strategic elements of the show that fans have missed.
3. What Led to Hetty Lange’s Absence from NCIS: Los Angeles?
Linda Hunt’s character, Hetty Lange, has been absent from the NCIS: Los Angeles team for a while now, which left a noticeable void in the show. Hetty’s absence was initially explained by the writers as her taking on covert assignments and other high-level missions. Throughout the seasons, there were occasional references to her whereabouts, but she was not physically present on-screen as much.
Linda Hunt herself had to take a step back from her role due to personal health reasons, which was the primary reason for her reduced presence. The actress, who has been part of the show since its inception, took time away to focus on her well-being, leading to Hetty’s absence in several episodes. Despite this, Hetty’s influence remained ever-present in the series, with many of the characters still referencing her guidance and leadership.
4. Why Fans Are Excited About Hetty Lange’s Possible Return
The prospect of Hetty Lange returning for NCIS: Los Angeles Season 15 has fans thrilled for several reasons. For one, Hetty has always been a fan-favorite character, known for her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude. Her return would bring a sense of balance and wisdom back to the team, which many fans have felt was missing in her absence.
Additionally, Hetty’s relationships with other characters, especially Callen and Sam, were a core aspect of the show’s earlier seasons. Her interactions with the team were rich with history and emotional depth. A return for Hetty would allow the show to delve back into these relationships and explore how they have evolved over time.
Finally, Hetty’s return could open the door for exciting new storylines. As an experienced and highly skilled leader, Hetty could bring fresh perspectives to the challenges the team faces. Her strategic mind and extensive network of contacts could prove invaluable as the team tackles new threats.
5. What Could Hetty’s Return Mean for the Future of NCIS: Los Angeles?
Hetty Lange’s potential return could be a game-changer for the future of NCIS: Los Angeles. The show has gone through several changes in its cast and direction over the years, but bringing Hetty back would allow for a reconnection with the show’s roots.
The introduction of Hetty could also help resolve some lingering plot points that have developed in her absence. Her deep connections and expertise could be instrumental in solving ongoing cases, and her return could breathe new life into the investigative aspect of the series. Additionally, Hetty’s leadership could spark fresh dynamics between the team members, especially with newer characters who may not be as familiar with her.
Moreover, Hetty’s return could be the catalyst for a more emotional and character-driven storyline. Fans have followed the personal lives and growth of the characters for over a decade, and Hetty’s return could bring new layers to these relationships, especially with characters like Callen, Sam, and Kensi.
6. How Might Hetty’s Return Affect the NCIS: Los Angeles Team?
Hetty’s return wouldn’t just impact the storyline; it would also affect the team dynamic. The presence of a seasoned, powerful leader like Hetty could lead to shifts in how the team operates. Her return might challenge the leadership of characters like Callen and Sam, sparking new conflicts or strengthening their partnership.
Additionally, Hetty’s return could provide a sense of closure for some characters who have been affected by her absence. It could also open up opportunities for new team members to bond with her, creating interesting inter-character dynamics.
Furthermore, Hetty’s presence would undoubtedly inspire some much-needed guidance and wisdom for the younger agents. Hetty has always been the embodiment of tactical expertise and mentorship, so her return could provide much-needed balance and direction for the team as they face tougher cases.
7. Linda Hunt’s Health and Her Potential Return to the Show
The return of Hetty Lange is tied to the health of actress Linda Hunt. Hunt took a break from acting to focus on her well-being, but if her health has improved and she is ready to return, it would be a huge moment for both her fans and the NCIS: Los Angeles family.
In interviews, Hunt has remained relatively private about her health journey, but there has been hope that she might rejoin the cast if she feels able. While it is still unclear whether she will be fully returning for Season 15, fans remain hopeful that the actress can resume her iconic role on the show.
8. What Can Fans Expect If Hetty Returns in NCIS: Los Angeles Season 15?
If Hetty Lange does return for NCIS: Los Angeles Season 15, fans can expect a mix of nostalgia, high-stakes drama, and the return of a beloved character. Hetty’s return would likely bring new challenges for the team to face, both in terms of criminal investigations and personal relationships.
The emotional depth and complexity of Hetty’s character would allow for engaging storylines, and her return would undoubtedly inject the show with fresh energy. Fans can expect to see Hetty once again leading the charge in solving crimes, giving out cryptic yet wise advice, and reigniting the chemistry that made her a central figure in the NCIS universe.
Conclusion: Hetty Lange’s Potential Return to NCIS: Los Angeles
The possibility of Hetty Lange’s return to NCIS: Los Angeles for Season 15 has fans excited and hopeful. As one of the original and most beloved characters in the franchise, Hetty’s presence on the show would mark a major moment in the series’ history. While there is still uncertainty about the specifics of her return, fans are eager to see how Hetty’s comeback could shake things up and bring new energy to the team.
Hetty Lange has always been a vital part of NCIS: Los Angeles, and her return could be the perfect way to celebrate the milestone 15th season. Whether it’s revisiting old relationships, solving new cases, or taking the team in exciting new directions, Hetty’s return could be the next big chapter in the show’s long-running success.
FAQs
1. Why has Hetty Lange been absent from NCIS: Los Angeles?
Hetty Lange’s absence was mainly due to Linda Hunt’s health issues, as she took a break from acting to focus on her well-being. Her character was explained to be on covert assignments, which kept her off-screen for several seasons.
2. Is Linda Hunt returning to NCIS: Los Angeles for Season 15?
While it hasn’t been officially confirmed, Linda Hunt has hinted that she may return to the series. Fans are hopeful that her health has improved and that Hetty Lange will be back for the milestone season.
3. What impact would Hetty’s return have on NCIS: Los Angeles?
Hetty’s return would bring back a central figure to the team, offering leadership, wisdom, and emotional depth. It would also provide fresh dynamics between the characters and potentially resolve long-running plot points.
4. What role did Hetty Lange play in NCIS: Los Angeles?
Hetty Lange was the operations manager of the NCIS Los Angeles team, providing critical intelligence, leadership, and mentorship to the agents. She was a key figure in the team’s success and helped guide the characters through various challenges.
5. Can Hetty Lange’s return change the direction of NCIS: Los Angeles?
Absolutely. Hetty’s return would shake up the team dynamics, inspire new storylines, and offer opportunities for deeper character development. Her leadership and experience could help tackle the more complex and dangerous cases the team faces.
