‘NCIS: Los Angeles’: 9 Characters We’d Like to See Again Before Series Ends

As NCIS: Los Angeles approaches its series finale, fans are bracing themselves for the end of an era. Over the course of 14 seasons, the show has introduced a plethora of unforgettable characters, some of whom left an indelible mark on the series. While the core team of agents—Callen, Sam, Kensi, Deeks, and the rest—have carried the show for years, there are numerous fan-favorite characters who deserve one last appearance before the series concludes.

In this article, we’ll take a look at 9 characters that fans would love to see return before NCIS: Los Angeles signs off for good. Whether it’s for one last mission, an emotional goodbye, or simply to tie up loose ends, these characters would add a layer of depth and nostalgia to the series finale.

1. Hetty Lange (Linda Hunt)

Hetty’s Legacy: A Long-Awaited Return

No list of characters we’d like to see return would be complete without Hetty Lange. Played by Linda Hunt, Hetty is the heart and soul of the NCIS: Los Angeles team. Her guidance, wisdom, and sometimes cryptic ways have made her an unforgettable part of the series. Although Hetty has taken a step back from active fieldwork in recent seasons, she’s always remained an essential figure in the team’s lives.

Hetty’s return in the series finale would provide fans with much-needed closure, especially considering the significant role she’s played in shaping the team. Her legacy as the team’s mentor deserves a moment to shine in the final episodes, and fans would love to see her one last time before the show ends.

2. Nate Getz (Peter Cambor)

The Return of the Psychological Expert

Nate Getz, the team’s former psychological operations expert, made a lasting impact on NCIS: Los Angeles with his insightful analysis and no-nonsense approach to his work. Nate’s emotional departure from the show was a tough moment for many fans, as his calm demeanor and valuable contributions to the team made him a fan favorite.

Seeing Nate return, even briefly, would be a great way to revisit the emotional and psychological challenges that the team has faced over the years. His unique perspective could bring valuable insight into the final stages of the team’s journey, and fans would love to see how he’s doing after leaving the world of NCIS.

3. Admiral Kilbride (Gerald McRaney)

The No-Nonsense Admiral

Admiral Kilbride, played by the iconic Gerald McRaney, has been a commanding figure in the latter seasons of NCIS: Los Angeles. As the team’s superior, he has offered a tough but fair perspective on the situations the team faces. His straightforward approach and dry humor have made him a fan-favorite, and it would be a great way to bring him back for the final season.

Kilbride’s return could provide a sense of closure, as his role has been instrumental in the team’s operations. Fans would love to see him provide one last bit of guidance to the team before they move on to the next chapter of their lives.

4. Deeks’ Father (James Landry Hébert)

A Complicated Family Dynamic

Throughout the series, Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen) has often been conflicted about his relationship with his father, portrayed by James Landry Hébert. While Deeks’ relationship with his father has been a central point in his personal story, the elder Deeks has not appeared on the show in recent years. A return for Deeks’ father could provide an emotional closure to this complex family dynamic.

Given the challenges Deeks has faced in his life, a reconciliation or even a confrontation with his father would add a poignant layer to the series finale. Fans would love to see how Deeks has grown and how this final interaction could help him find peace with his past.

5. Joelle Taylor (Elizabeth Bogush)

A Return for Callen’s Love Interest

Callen (Chris O’Donnell) has had his fair share of romantic interests throughout the series, but none have captured fans’ attention quite like Joelle Taylor. Joelle, portrayed by Elizabeth Bogush, was Callen’s long-time love interest and one of the few characters to truly understand the complexities of Callen’s past. Her return in the final season would give Callen a sense of closure, both in his personal life and in his ongoing search for family.

With Callen facing many changes and uncertainties in the final episodes, seeing Joelle again could provide him with the emotional support he needs to move forward. Fans have long hoped for a reunion, and it would be a fitting way to bring closure to one of the show’s most enduring relationships.

6. Lauren Hunter (Sarah McKinley)

The Return of the Mysterious Operative

Lauren Hunter, portrayed by Sarah McKinley, was a highly skilled operative who made several appearances in earlier seasons of NCIS: Los Angeles. As a member of the team’s larger network of contacts, Lauren’s knowledge of international operations and her role in covert missions made her an invaluable ally to the team.

Her return could tie into larger storylines that were left unresolved, particularly those involving international espionage or covert operations. Lauren’s expertise could be crucial in solving a final case or in confronting the show’s ultimate threat. Fans would love to see how her character has evolved since her last appearance and what role she could play in the final episodes.

7. Dominic Vail (Adam Jamal Craig)

A Long-Awaited Comeback for the Original Team Member

Dominic Vail, played by Adam Jamal Craig, was one of the original members of the NCIS: Los Angeles team before his abrupt departure early in the series. Dominic’s unexpected exit left many fans wondering what could have been if he had stayed on the team. While he didn’t have a major storyline in the later seasons, his return in the final episodes could provide some much-needed nostalgia for fans who remember the early days of the show.

Dominic’s presence would remind viewers of the team’s humble beginnings and how far they’ve come over the years. His return could serve as a symbolic reminder of the team’s strong foundation and enduring bond.

8. Anna Kolcheck (Bar Paly)

Callen’s Complicated Love Interest

Anna Kolcheck, the Russian operative played by Bar Paly, has been a recurring love interest for Callen over the course of the series. Their complicated relationship has been fraught with both passion and tension, and fans have long been eager to see what the future holds for the couple.

With Callen on the brink of a new chapter in his life, a return from Anna would bring an interesting dynamic to his storyline. Her character could play a pivotal role in Callen’s final decision-making process, and their reunion would bring a sense of closure to their tumultuous relationship.

9. Barry (Adam Jamal Craig)

A Fun Return for an Underestimated Character

Barry, portrayed by Adam Jamal Craig, has had a small but memorable role in NCIS: Los Angeles, providing comic relief and assisting the team with various cases. While Barry isn’t as high-profile as some of the other characters on this list, his quirky personality and contributions to the team have made him a fan favorite.

Bringing Barry back in the series finale could provide some lighthearted moments, offering a break from the tension and allowing fans to reminisce about the show’s more humorous moments. His return would be a fun way to celebrate the show’s long history and add some final comedic relief.

Conclusion: The Final Farewell

As NCIS: Los Angeles approaches its final episodes, the potential return of these beloved characters would bring a sense of closure and nostalgia to the series. Whether it’s Hetty’s guidance, Deeks’ complicated family relationships, or the possibility of Callen’s love life being resolved, these characters’ returns would add depth and emotional resonance to the show’s conclusion. While the series may be ending, these characters’ legacies will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans, who will continue to remember the impact they had on the NCIS: Los Angeles universe.