The NCIS fandom was recently treated to some amazing news, with the celebration of the franchise’s 1000th episode airing not that long ago as part of the 2024 TV schedule. But, a blow was dealt near the end of April, when it was announced that NCIS: Hawai’i was canceled after only three seasons. That show, notably, was the only among the franchise’s many series to have a woman lead the team. Now, NCIS: Los Angeles alum Daniela Ruah has responded after star Vanessa Lachey credited Kensi for paving the way for her, and it’s really hitting me harder after the cancellation.
What Did Daniela Ruah Say About NCIS: Hawai’i’s Vanessa Lachey Crediting Kensi For Her Leading Role?
That’s really sweet and humble, isn’t it? And, it also sucks hard because, while Lachey certainly helped diversify the NCIS universe, well, she’s not going to be able to set any more records or break any more glass ceilings there now. In fact, Hawai’i only has one more episode left to air (which we really hope will stick the landing as a series finale), as of this writing, meaning that our time with Jane and her tropical crew of naval crime fighters is this close to being kaput
Lachey talked previously about how important it was for there to be a woman of color as Special Agent in Charge on her show, and after Hawai’i was canceled she wasted no time in speaking out about being “blindsided” by the decision, as were so many of its fans. It’s likely that Ruah, who admitted to having “bonded” with the drama’s lead while directing her, is feeling the sting as well.
This might be especially true once she heard that the star told the outlet “I 100 percent believe that my character wouldn’t have been able to get to the places I needed to get without [Kensi]” having been around and in the field for 14 years. Ruah continued:
Her words are amazing, but also UGHGHGHGHHHHH, right? I mean, the job really is over, but she had no idea how true her words would be when she offered up so much kindness in response to the Jane Tennant actress. All we can hope for is that more “good” really does come for both of them soon.