The series finale of NCIS: Los Angeles was undeniably a poignant affair, delivering long-awaited happy endings for our beloved agents and a sense of closure after fourteen thrilling seasons. The wedding of Callen and Anna, the joyous news of Kensi and Deeks’ impending parenthood, and the heartfelt camaraderie among the team left many fans with tears in their eyes. However, amidst the emotional farewells and the return of familiar faces, a noticeable absence lingered, leaving a bittersweet taste for those who had followed the show since its inception: a proper on-screen goodbye to the enigmatic and irreplaceable Hetty Lange, portrayed by the legendary Linda Hunt.
A Finale Filled With Familiar Faces: Wrapping Up Loose Ends
The two-part finale, titled “New Beginnings,” masterfully wove together the personal and professional lives of the core team, bringing back several cherished characters to celebrate the end of an era.
The Return of Nell Jones: A Welcome Sight
One of the most anticipated returns was that of Nell Jones (Renée Felice Smith), Hetty’s protégé and a fan-favorite intelligence analyst. Her appearance in the final moments, stepping off the plane in Morocco to greet Callen and Sam for their “side project” orchestrated by Hetty, was a delightful surprise and a comforting reminder of the enduring connections within the team.
A Wedding and a Baby: Personal Milestones Achieved
The culmination of Callen and Anna’s love story with a beautiful city hall wedding and the joyous announcement of Kensi and Deeks’ pregnancy provided the emotional heart of the finale, offering the happy endings that fans had long hoped for. These personal milestones felt like fitting conclusions to their respective journeys.
The Core Team United: A Final Mission (of Sorts)
The final scene of Callen and Sam embarking on a new, albeit mysterious, mission in Morocco, guided by Hetty through Nell, reinforced the enduring partnership that anchored the series for so many years. It suggested that even with the show’s end, the adventures might continue in some form, albeit off-screen.
The Lingering Absence: Where Was Hetty Lange?
Despite the satisfying returns and the hopeful glimpses into the future, the conspicuous absence of Linda Hunt’s Hetty Lange from the physical events of the finale was a significant point of disappointment for many viewers. While her presence was felt through Nell’s return and a letter to Callen, a proper on-screen farewell with the team she had nurtured for so long felt like a crucial missing piece.
A Voice and a Letter: Hetty’s Presence Felt, Not Seen
Hetty’s influence was certainly woven into the finale. She sent a heartfelt letter to Callen congratulating him on his wedding and extending her characteristic invitation to a new, intriguing mission. Additionally, Linda Hunt provided a voiceover narration at key moments, offering her wisdom and perspective on the journey of the team. However, these acknowledgments, while appreciated, couldn’t fully replace the impact of seeing her interact with the team one last time.
A Character of Immense Significance: The Heart of OSP
Hetty Lange was more than just the Operations Manager; she was the heart and soul of the Office of Special Projects. Her enigmatic nature, her sharp intellect, her unwavering loyalty to her team, and her uncanny ability to manipulate situations for the greater good made her an unforgettable and irreplaceable character. Her absence from the physical farewell felt like a void that couldn’t be entirely filled by voiceovers and letters.
The Unfulfilled Wish: A Proper Goodbye
Many fans had hoped that Linda Hunt, despite her reduced on-screen presence in later seasons due to health reasons, would make a special appearance in the finale to bid farewell to the team and the audience. The lack of this physical goodbye left some feeling that her significant contribution to the show’s success wasn’t fully honored in its final moments.
The Reason Behind the Absence: Linda Hunt’s Health
While the desire for Hetty’s on-screen presence was strong, the reality of Linda Hunt’s health and well-being likely played a significant role in her absence from the physical filming of the finale. Hunt’s reduced role in the later seasons was attributed to her prioritizing her health, and it’s understandable that participating in a demanding two-part finale might not have been feasible.
Respecting a Legend: Prioritizing Linda Hunt’s Well-being
Ultimately, the decision to limit Linda Hunt’s involvement to voiceovers and a narrative device was likely made out of respect for her health and comfort. While disappointing for some fans, it’s important to acknowledge the priority of her well-being.
A Career Celebrated: Her Enduring Legacy
Linda Hunt’s portrayal of Hetty Lange will forever be a defining element of NCIS: Los Angeles. Her nuanced performance, her iconic style, and the unique energy she brought to the show created a character that resonated deeply with audiences. Her legacy within the NCIS universe is secure, regardless of her physical presence in the final episode.
Conclusion: A Bittersweet Farewell With a Missing Piece
The series finale of NCIS: Los Angeles was a deeply emotional and largely satisfying conclusion, offering happy endings for our beloved agents and bringing back familiar faces to celebrate their journey. However, the absence of a proper on-screen farewell with Linda Hunt’s Hetty Lange left a noticeable void for many fans. While her presence was felt through voiceovers and the return of Nell Jones, the lack of a physical goodbye with the team she so fiercely protected felt like a missing piece in the final puzzle. Despite this bittersweet element, the finale ultimately honored the enduring spirit of NCIS: Los Angeles and the unforgettable characters who made it so special, leaving a legacy that will continue to be cherished by its devoted fanbase.
