The NCIS franchise recently celebrated a significant milestone, with the airing of its 1000th episode, marking a historic moment for the beloved series. However, the joy was tempered by the bittersweet news that NCIS: Hawai’i, the only show within the franchise to feature a female lead, was canceled after just three seasons. This show, with Vanessa Lachey playing Special Agent in Charge Jane Tennant, was seen as a breakthrough for diversity in the NCIS universe, showcasing the first woman of color in a leadership role.
Amidst this disappointment, Daniela Ruah, who portrayed Kensi Blye on NCIS: Los Angeles for over a decade, responded to Lachey’s praise for her role in paving the way for women in the franchise. Ruah, who has portrayed Kensi since the very first episode of NCIS: LA in 2009, was humbled by Lachey’s comments, which came after a special crossover event to celebrate the 1000th episode. In an interview with Parade, Ruah expressed her gratitude, admitting that she was deeply moved by the recognition. She acknowledged that while she couldn’t speak for Lachey’s experience, she was honored to have contributed to creating a path for other women to follow. “Every woman who comes before us is helping to elevate the next,” Ruah said. “If I’m someone she gets to stand on to now lead a franchise show, I’m beyond thrilled.”
Her response reflects a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among female stars of the franchise, and highlights the importance of women uplifting one another in the entertainment industry. However, her words also carry a deeper sense of poignancy, especially after the announcement of NCIS: Hawai’i’s cancellation. The news felt particularly hard for fans, as they had come to love the diverse characters and stories that Lachey’s portrayal of Jane Tennant brought to the screen.
In a time when NCIS shows have long been dominated by male leads, Lachey’s performance in the leading role of NCIS: Hawai’i was a game-changer. Ruah also shared her admiration for Lachey, describing her as the perfect person to take on the role of Jane Tennant. She praised Lachey’s ability to balance her role as a strong, capable leader with being a dedicated mother and wife. The bond that formed between the two actresses while Ruah directed an episode of NCIS: Hawai’i remains strong, as they continue to stay in touch.
The cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i marks the end of an era for the franchise, with fans mourning the loss of Jane Tennant’s leadership and the representation it provided. Ruah’s acknowledgment of Lachey’s sentiments and her own contribution to paving the way for female characters in the NCIS universe is a bittersweet reminder of how far the franchise has come — and how much more could have been achieved if NCIS: Hawai’i had been given more time to thrive. It’s a moment that resonates deeply, not just for the actresses involved, but for all who hoped to see more women leading the charge in the world of NCIS.
