“Things Would’ve Been Different”: NCIS: LA Season 14 Finale Changes After Cancellation Explained
The cancellation of NCIS: Los Angeles after 14 seasons shocked fans, leaving many questions about the original plans for the final episodes. In particular, the Season 14 finale had to undergo significant changes following the unexpected announcement, making us wonder how things would have played out differently if the show had continued for another season or two.
In this article, we will explore the modifications made to the NCIS: LA Season 14 finale due to the cancellation, discuss what might have happened in an alternate universe where the series wasn’t cut short, and reflect on how these changes impacted the storyline, characters, and overall conclusion of the beloved show.
The Unexpected Cancellation: A Shocking Blow to the Team
How the Cancellation Affected the Writers and Crew
NCIS: Los Angeles has been a staple on CBS for over a decade, building a loyal fanbase with its thrilling storylines, action-packed sequences, and emotionally resonant character arcs. However, in 2023, CBS made the surprising decision to cancel the show after its 14th season. This left the writers and cast with the challenge of wrapping up the series in a satisfying way within a shortened timeframe.
The cancellation came as a blow not only to the fans but also to the team behind the scenes. Showrunner R. Scott Gemmill and the writers had to revise their original plans for the finale, significantly altering the storyline to provide closure to key character arcs. The impact of the cancellation was felt deeply, especially since the show had already been gearing up for more exciting developments.
“Things Would Have Been Different”: What Was Planned for the Original Finale
A Larger-Scale Story Arc for Key Characters
When NCIS: LA was first renewed for Season 14, there were hints of new storylines that would explore deeper character developments and long-running mysteries. In the original concept for the finale, several characters, including Callen (Chris O’Donnell), Sam (LL Cool J), and Hetty (Linda Hunt), were set to experience major shifts in their personal and professional lives.
One of the most significant changes fans missed out on was the planned deeper dive into Callen’s backstory. The creators had intended to focus on resolving some long-standing questions about Callen’s origins and family. Additionally, there were discussions of possibly expanding on Hetty’s mysterious past, with a subplot that would reveal more about her secretive operations and personal sacrifices. Unfortunately, due to the cancellation, these storylines were trimmed down or completely eliminated, leaving many unresolved questions.
Unfinished Storylines
The premature ending also meant that some plot threads that were building throughout the season were left unresolved. One major example was the unresolved tension between Callen and Anna (Bar Paly). Their relationship had been building steadily in Season 14, with the finale intended to explore the next chapter of their romance. However, the cancellation truncated this arc, leaving fans wondering if Callen and Anna would have eventually tied the knot, started a family, or faced new challenges in their partnership.
The same can be said for Sam and his relationship with his family. The show had teased some intriguing dynamics in Sam’s personal life, especially regarding his bond with his children. These emotional plotlines were meant to culminate in the finale, but instead, the writers had to scramble to tie things up quickly.
The Altered Finale: What We Got vs. What Was Planned
A Shift in Focus: Moving from Long-Term Arcs to Closure
With the cancellation in mind, the writers decided to shift the focus of the NCIS: LA Season 14 finale from long-term character arcs to providing a sense of closure. The original plans likely involved more tension, suspense, and a deeper exploration of the show’s core mysteries, but instead, the finale aimed to give fans a sense of finality and resolution.
The result was a somewhat rushed conclusion that, while still satisfying, didn’t provide the extended emotional payoff that the characters—and viewers—deserved. The series finale had to deliver major character resolutions, like Callen’s future in NCIS and the fate of the team, in a way that felt both conclusive and hopeful for what could come next. While the finale still managed to tie up major plot points, some of the more intricate details were left unsaid, especially concerning Hetty’s fate and any possible team changes.
A Shift in Character Development
What many fans may not realize is that the cancellation of NCIS: Los Angeles also affected the pacing and depth of character development in the finale. Originally, the writers had planned for a more gradual, natural progression in some character arcs, which would have allowed them to resolve personal stories in a more fulfilling way. However, in light of the cancellation, the show had to condense these arcs into a more compact timeframe, often opting for more generic resolutions rather than deeper exploration.
Take Sam’s relationship with his family, for example. His story in the finale was meant to be a larger moment for him to reflect on his past and future, but the shortened timeline meant that his arc was given less emotional weight than it might have in a more extended finale.
What Fans Missed Out On: Bigger Questions and Deeper Connections
Hetty’s Possible Departure
One of the most intriguing questions left unanswered by the finale was Hetty’s future with NCIS: Los Angeles. There had been talks of Hetty stepping down or taking a more permanent break from the team, but due to the cancellation, the writers had to cut this storyline short. In an alternate version of the finale, Hetty would have made a more dramatic exit, perhaps stepping into a new role outside the team, providing closure to her decades-long involvement with the NCIS organization.
Her exit could have been a pivotal moment for the team, forcing Callen and Sam to fully embrace their leadership roles and take on responsibilities without her guidance. Fans will never know the full extent of how Hetty’s departure could have impacted the team dynamic, but the shift from a prolonged departure to a more hurried wrap-up was undoubtedly a significant change from the original plans.
The Future of NCIS: Los Angeles and the Legacy of the Team
NCIS: Los Angeles as a Cultural Staple
Despite the cancellation, NCIS: Los Angeles has left a lasting impact on both the NCIS franchise and the television landscape as a whole. The team’s dynamic, particularly the strong relationships between the characters, has been a key element of the show’s success. Fans still look back fondly on the show’s ability to balance action, drama, and character moments.
Although the finale didn’t get the chance to fully explore all the potential future developments, the show’s cultural footprint remains undeniable. The series was able to bring forward important topics and offer up moments of intense action and deep character growth.
What’s Next for the Cast?
As for the cast, many of the stars have already hinted at new projects on the horizon. Chris O’Donnell and LL Cool J are still active in the entertainment industry, and it’s safe to say their careers won’t slow down after NCIS: Los Angeles. However, their deep connection to the show’s success will remain an important part of their legacy in Hollywood.
Conclusion: A Premature End, But a Legacy That Lives On
The cancellation of NCIS: Los Angeles left fans and creators alike with a bittersweet feeling. Although the final episodes provided some closure, they also highlighted what could have been—larger, more intricate storylines and more emotional farewells. The cancellation forced the show to pivot, truncating several character arcs and leaving many questions unanswered.
While the NCIS: Los Angeles Season 14 finale wrapped up the team’s story in a satisfying way, the changes made to the storyline are a reminder of how much was lost when the show was cut short. For fans, the finale marks the end of a beloved chapter, but it also solidifies NCIS: Los Angeles’ place in television history.
