Fans of NCIS Los Angeles were overjoyed when they learned that Daniela Ruah, who portrayed Agent Kensi Blye, would be returning to the beloved NCIS franchise. While the beloved show wrapped up its final season last year, leaving many fans heartbroken, Ruah’s return brings renewed excitement. The actress will not be reprising her role as Kensi Blye, but rather stepping behind the camera to take on an incredible new role as a director. This marks her return to the NCIS universe, not just as a former cast member, but in a completely different capacity.
Ruah is set to direct two highly anticipated episodes, one for the flagship NCIS series, slated for release in March, and another for NCIS: Hawaii, which will air in April. Fans were quick to express their enthusiasm for Ruah’s return on social media. One fan remarked, “So awesome to see you back with NCIS! Miss Kensi & Deeks,” referring to her character’s enduring relationship with her partner, Agent Marty Deeks. Another supporter posted, “Happy to have you in the NCIS universe! I miss the show so much,” expressing gratitude that the actress would continue contributing to the franchise in a new and exciting way.
This isn’t Daniela Ruah’s first time stepping into the director’s chair. Prior to NCIS: Los Angeles concluding in 2023, she made her directorial debut during the show’s 12th season. She went on to direct several episodes, earning praise for her work behind the scenes. Speaking about her return as a director for the NCIS universe, Daniela shared, “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. It’s like coming home.”
This behind-the-scenes role has allowed her to work with many familiar faces she’s known for years, creating a sense of nostalgia and camaraderie. Fans are eagerly anticipating her directorial contributions, especially since Ruah’s experience as a director on NCIS LA helped elevate the show to new heights before it came to a close. Her involvement in the NCIS franchise in this new capacity assures fans that even though the LA spin-off is no longer airing, the impact of the show and its talented cast and crew continues. Whether directing action-packed sequences or emotional character moments, Ruah is poised to bring a fresh perspective and exceptional vision to both NCIS and NCIS: Hawaii.