NCIS: Los Angeles’ Daniela Ruah Explains How Eric Christian Olsen Coming Aboard Led Showrunner To Make Her Change Kensi In A Specific Way
When it comes to hit TV shows, chemistry between characters can make or break the audience’s connection to the story. In the case of NCIS: Los Angeles, one of the most beloved duos is undoubtedly Kensi Blye, played by Daniela Ruah, and Marty Deeks, portrayed by Eric Christian Olsen. Over more than a decade, their relationship has evolved into one of the most captivating dynamics on television. But did you know that Eric Christian Olsen’s entry into the show led to a significant change in Ruah’s portrayal of Kensi? Let’s dive into the story behind this shift and uncover why it was crucial for the success of the series.
The Early Days of Kensi Blye: Establishing a Strong Female Lead
Kensi Blye was introduced to the NCIS: Los Angeles audience as a tenacious, smart, and fearless agent. From day one, Daniela Ruah's portrayal set Kensi apart as a character who could balance emotional depth with razor-sharp professionalism. Whether she was defusing bombs or interrogating suspects, she quickly became a fan favorite. However, back in the early seasons, Kensi’s character had a tough, "lone wolf" persona that didn’t leave much room for vulnerability.
Enter Eric Christian Olsen: A Game-Changer for the Series
When Eric Christian Olsen joined the NCIS: Los Angeles cast as Detective Marty Deeks, the producers had a clear vision. They needed a strong yet relatable partner for Kensi. Olsen’s charisma and comedic timing added a fresh dynamic to the show. His character, Deeks, was a bit of a wildcard—unconventional, witty, and endearingly flawed. However, as Daniela Ruah revealed in an interview, Deeks’ arrival didn’t just impact the show’s narrative; it also transformed her approach to playing Kensi.
Collaboration Behind the Scenes: Daniela Ruah Talks About Kensi’s Evolution
According to Daniela Ruah, the showrunner played a pivotal role in recognizing the potential of Kensi and Deeks as a duo. Early in the scriptwriting process, it became clear that the two characters balanced each other in a way that made their interactions electric. But this meant that Kensi’s character needed to pivot toward a different version of herself—one that didn’t compromise her strength but allowed her to be more relatable and multidimensional.
A New Layer of Vulnerability: How Ruah Adapted Kensi
Before Deeks arrived, Kensi was all about business. Her laser focus on her job made her a remarkable agent but sometimes left her looking impenetrable. With Deeks, there was a bit of give and take—Ruah had to allow moments of levity, sensitivity, and even humor to seep into Kensi’s personality. In many ways, Kensi became more human, showcasing a vulnerability that hadn’t been explored earlier in the series.
Chemistry Is Key: Why Ruah and Olsen Shine Together
Let’s face it: chemistry can’t be forced. You either have it, or you don’t. Fortunately for NCIS: Los Angeles, Daniela Ruah and Eric Christian Olsen struck pure gold as scene partners. Their banter felt natural, their emotional moments were heartfelt, and their growing partnership on the show slowly evolved into a cornerstone of the series.
The Showrunner’s Vision: Finding Balance Between Opposites
The showrunner understood that contrast works wonders in storytelling. By pairing Kensi’s disciplined, by-the-book mindset with Deeks’ more free-spirited approach, you get a duo that keeps viewers invested. It was like watching two sides of the same coin work together—each making up for what the other might lack.
Adjusting Kensi's Tough Exterior: A Strategic Move
Changing Kensi’s character wasn’t just about softening her for the sake of romance. It was a strategic way to broaden her appeal. Fans were already invested in Kensi’s badassery, but showing a more dynamic range allowed audiences to connect with her even more deeply. And who could forget the countless heartwarming moments where Deeks managed to get her to crack a smile or open up emotionally?
The Kensi-Deeks Relationship: A Slow Burn That Paid Dividends
One of the reasons fans adored the Kensi-Deeks partnership was that their relationship didn’t feel rushed. It took seasons of build-up—rich with playful teasing, poignant conversations, and meaningful gestures—for their romance to blossom. This slow burn wasn’t accidental; it was a conscious storytelling decision that made their eventual relationship feel earned.
How Eric Christian Olsen’s Humor Changed the Tone
Eric Christian Olsen is a master of comedic timing. His lighthearted approach brought moments of levity to the action-packed drama of NCIS: Los Angeles. This had a ripple effect on Kensi, who started to show her witty side more frequently. By embracing humor, Kensi became less of a lone wolf and more approachable—a deliberate choice shaped by the chemistry she shared with Deeks.
Empowering Each Other: Kensi and Deeks as Equals
What’s compelling about Kensi and Deeks is that their relationship never felt one-sided. They challenge each other, support each other, and grow together. This speaks to the meticulous writing and the dedication of both Ruah and Olsen to make these characters feel authentic.
Fan Reactions: Why Viewers Loved the Change
Fans were quick to notice the shift in Kensi’s character once Deeks came into the picture. On social media and fan forums, viewers praised the balance between Kensi’s tough exterior and her emerging vulnerability. Many felt that this evolution made her more relatable as a character and deepened their connection to the show.
Lessons Learned: Why Character Evolution Is Essential
The evolution of Kensi Blye is a testament to the importance of flexibility in character development. By adapting to the dynamic Olsen brought to the table, Ruah was able to create a richer, more layered portrayal of Kensi. It’s a reminder that even the strongest characters can benefit from growth and change.
What Makes Kensi and Deeks So Iconic?
When you think about TV’s most iconic pairings, Kensi and Deeks are right up there. Their relationship isn’t perfect, but that’s what makes it compelling. They argue, they laugh, they face challenges together—it’s a partnership that feels real.
Behind the Scenes: The Real-Life Bond Between Ruah and Olsen
One of the reasons their on-screen chemistry feels so authentic is due to the genuine friendship between Daniela Ruah and Eric Christian Olsen off-screen. Their mutual respect and camaraderie translate effortlessly onto the screen.
NCIS: Los Angeles Legacy: How Kensi and Deeks Shaped the Series
As NCIS: Los Angeles heads into its final chapters, the legacy of Kensi and Deeks remains one of its most significant contributions. Their relationship set a high bar for character-driven storytelling in a procedural drama.
Conclusion
Eric Christian Olsen’s arrival on NCIS: Los Angeles wasn’t just an addition to the cast—it was a transformative moment that reshaped the trajectory of one of its core characters. Through Kensi and Deeks’ partnership, we witnessed a masterclass in character evolution, storytelling, and on-screen chemistry. By embracing change and growth, Daniela Ruah and the showrunner ensured that Kensi Blye would remain a fan favorite for years to come.
FAQs
1. How did Eric Christian Olsen's character impact Kensi Blye?
Eric Christian Olsen's portrayal of Marty Deeks brought a balance of humor and sensitivity, which allowed Kensi’s character to evolve and show more vulnerability.
2. Was the shift in Kensi’s character planned from the beginning?
No, the shift happened organically after the showrunner noticed the chemistry between Ruah and Olsen and adjusted Kensi’s character to capitalize on their dynamic.
3. Why is Kensi and Deeks’ relationship so popular with fans?
Fans love their relationship because it feels real—filled with humor, challenges, and growth over time.
4. What makes Daniela Ruah and Eric Christian Olsen’s chemistry unique?
Their genuine friendship off-screen contributes to a natural and authentic connection on-screen.
5. Will Kensi and Deeks’ legacy continue beyond the series?
Absolutely! Their relationship has left an indelible mark on the show’s legacy, and fans will remember them as one of TV’s iconic duos.
I want to apply the Justify style to make it look neat and professional.
