After 15 years of captivating audiences as Agent Kensi Blye on NCIS: Los Angeles, Daniela Ruah is returning to the NCIS universe—this time, not in front of the camera but behind it. Following the conclusion of NCIS: LA in May 2023, which wrapped up an impressive 14-season run, Daniela is making her return to the beloved franchise, albeit in a new role as a director. Ruah is set to direct two episodes, one for NCIS Season 21, slated to air in March 2024, and another for NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3, which will air in April 2024. The transition from starring in the franchise to directing has been a full-circle moment for Daniela, who has helmed six episodes of NCIS: LA since 2021. She has expressed how meaningful it is to return to the world that made her a household name.
In an interview with Deadline, Daniela shared her feelings about stepping back into the NCIS family, calling it “like coming home.” Having first appeared as Kensi Blye in the NCIS backdoor pilot in 2009, Daniela has deep ties to the NCIS franchise, and her return to the set as a director is especially poignant. “Kensi was born as a character on NCIS, 15 years ago, so now to be able to step onto that set again, as a director, with that incredible cast and crew, is an absolute honor,” Ruah reflected. “So many familiar faces and people I love, and they’ve welcomed me with open arms.” Her enthusiasm about directing for both NCIS and NCIS: Hawai’i underscores her deep respect for the franchise and her dedication to its continued success.
Her excitement is palpable, as she also shared her joy on Instagram with her followers, teasing the return with a post and the hashtags #NCIS and #NCISHawaii, signaling the beginning of this new chapter. The return to the NCIS universe also coincides with another major NCIS: LA alum, LL Cool J, reprising his role as Sam Hanna on NCIS: Hawai’i in its third season. With both Daniela and LL Cool J bringing their talent back to the franchise, it’s clear that NCIS: LA’s legacy continues to influence the future of the NCIS universe.
While fans eagerly anticipate her directorial work, many can’t help but hope for a potential cameo from Kensi, especially after the emotional series finale of NCIS: LA, which revealed that Kensi and Deeks were starting a family. Although the NCIS: LA series finale isn’t available for streaming on Paramount+, fans can look forward to the continued storylines in the remaining NCIS franchises. Both NCIS Season 21 and NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3 will return in February 2024, with NCIS at 9 p.m. ET and NCIS: Hawai’i following at 10 p.m. ET, on CBS.
