In an interview following the emotional series finale of NCIS: Los Angeles, showrunner R. Scott Gemmill revealed key details about how the season 14 finale evolved after the series was unexpectedly canceled. While the finale was crafted to wrap up the show in a satisfying and heartfelt manner, Gemmill explained that there were significant changes made due to the show’s abrupt end.
- Wedding Plans and Kensi’s Pregnancy: One of the major storylines in the finale was the much-awaited wedding of Callen (Chris O’Donnell) and Anna (Bar Paly). However, Gemmill admitted that if the series had continued beyond season 14, the wedding likely wouldn’t have happened so soon. The couple would still be discussing their wedding plans, and the pregnancy revelation for Kensi (Daniela Ruah) might have been delayed. These storylines were fast-tracked to provide closure, but in a continuing season, they would have played out more gradually, with additional complications and repercussions down the line.
- A Financially Motivated Cancellation: NCIS: Los Angeles came to an end after 14 seasons, largely due to CBS’s financial considerations regarding the show’s high production costs. Despite the cancellation, the network gave Gemmill and his team enough time to plan a proper series conclusion. This allowed the writers to give fans the closure they deserved, including the significant wedding and reunion scenes in the finale.
- Potential for Future Appearances: While the show has officially ended, there remains a glimmer of hope for NCIS: Los Angeles fans who want to see the beloved characters again. Similar to the revivals of CSI and Criminal Minds, it’s possible that the LA team could appear in future crossovers within the larger NCIS franchise. Given that NCIS and NCIS: Hawai’i continue to air, there is still a chance that fan favorites like Sam (LL Cool J), Callen, and Kensi could return in future special events or crossover episodes.
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Legacy of NCIS: LA: With 323 episodes and 14 seasons, NCIS: Los Angeles has left a lasting legacy as one of CBS’s longest-running scripted primetime series. Gemmill expressed pride in how the show ended, ensuring that fans got a sense of closure while also leaving the door open for future NCIS franchise crossovers. The series may have concluded, but the characters and their adventures could continue in new forms within the expansive NCIS universe.
