A Void in the Sunshine: The NCIS: Los Angeles Character Fans Miss Most
Despite a satisfying conclusion that aimed to give its beloved characters a sense of closure, the absence of NCIS: Los Angeles still resonates deeply with its dedicated fanbase. The unique blend of action, humor, and heartfelt relationships forged over 14 seasons created a special connection with viewers. While the entire team is missed, there’s one particular character whose return to the NCIS universe, even in a guest appearance, would undoubtedly send fans into a frenzy of excitement and nostalgia: the witty, insightful, and fiercely loyal Marty Deeks, portrayed brilliantly by Eric Christian Olsen.
The Deeks Factor: Why Fans Still Yearn for His Return
Marty Deeks wasn’t just a liaison officer who wormed his way into the Office of Special Projects; he became the heart and soul of the team for many. His journey from a somewhat cynical LAPD detective to a fully integrated NCIS Special Agent, his unwavering love for Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah), and his unique brand of comedic relief made him an unforgettable presence. Deeks brought a much-needed levity to the often-dark world of espionage and crime-solving, and his banter with Kensi formed one of the most cherished and enduring romantic relationships in the NCIS franchise. His ability to seamlessly blend humor with moments of profound emotional depth is a quality that many fans still deeply miss.
The Perfect Candidate for a Comeback: Deeks’ Versatility
What makes Deeks an ideal candidate for a potential return to the NCIS universe is his established ability to interact with other teams. During the highly anticipated three-way crossover event involving NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles, and NCIS: Hawai’i, Deeks seamlessly integrated with the other agents, showcasing his adaptability and his knack for building rapport, even in high-pressure situations. This crossover proved that Deeks could easily fit into the dynamics of another NCIS show, offering exciting possibilities for future guest appearances or even a more recurring role within the broader franchise.
The Snag: Eric Christian Olsen’s Current Focus
However, the fervent hopes of fans yearning for Deeks’ return face one significant and potentially insurmountable obstacle: Eric Christian Olsen himself. In recent interviews, Olsen has been quite candid about his current professional focus, and unfortunately for those clamoring for Deeks’ comeback, his priorities lie elsewhere.
Olsen is currently deeply involved as an executive producer on the CBS reboot of Matlock, which premiered in 2024 and has already been renewed for more seasons. This significant behind-the-scenes role suggests a strong commitment to this new project and a shift in his creative energies. While Olsen has expressed his continued affection for his former NCIS: Los Angeles colleagues, including Daniela Ruah and Renée Felice Smith, he has also indicated that the desire to revisit the character of Deeks isn’t particularly strong at this time.
A “Not So Much” Desire: Olsen’s Perspective on Returning
Olsen’s straightforwardness about his current lack of inclination to return to the NCIS universe is a tough pill for many fans to swallow. Having spent over a decade embodying Marty Deeks, his decision to focus on new creative endeavors is understandable. The demands of a long-running procedural are significant, and after the series concluded, it’s natural for actors to explore different opportunities and challenges. While the door may not be entirely closed indefinitely, Olsen’s present commitment to Matlock as an executive producer makes a near-future return as Deeks highly unlikely.
The Lingering Hope: Never Say Never in the NCIS Universe
Despite Olsen’s current stance, the unpredictable nature of television and the enduring love for the character leave a sliver of hope for a future appearance. The NCIS franchise has a history of bringing back beloved characters in unexpected ways, often to the delight of fans. Whether it’s for a special crossover event, a guest appearance to help an old friend, or even a brief cameo, the possibility of seeing Marty Deeks back on screen, even if just for a fleeting moment, cannot be entirely ruled out.
What Deeks’ Return Could Offer: A Boost for Any NCIS Series
If, against the odds, Eric Christian Olsen were to reprise his role as Marty Deeks, the impact on whichever NCIS series he appeared in would be significant. His established fan base would undoubtedly tune in, providing a viewership boost and generating considerable buzz. His unique dynamic and established relationships within the NCIS world could also create compelling storylines and offer a welcome dose of familiarity for long-time viewers. The comedic and emotional layers that Deeks brought to NCIS: Los Angeles could inject a fresh and engaging element into any of the current NCIS iterations.
Conclusion: Fans Dream On, Despite the Snag
The desire for Marty Deeks to return to the NCIS universe remains a strong sentiment among fans of NCIS: Los Angeles. The character’s wit, loyalty, and the beloved “Densi” relationship with Kensi continue to hold a special place in their hearts. While Eric Christian Olsen’s current focus on his role as an executive producer on Matlock presents a significant snag in these hopes, the enduring love for Deeks and the unpredictable nature of television leave a glimmer of possibility for a future comeback. For now, fans will continue to cherish the memories of Deeks’ time on NCIS: Los Angeles, while perhaps holding onto a small hope that one day, he might just make a welcome return to the world they know and love.
