The Heart of the Home: Eric Christian Olsen’s Enduring Love for His Children
For 14 seasons on NCIS: Los Angeles, Eric Christian Olsen endeared himself to millions as the witty, often quirky, yet deeply loyal LAPD liaison-turned-NCIS Investigator Marty Deeks. His on-screen partnership with Daniela Ruah’s Kensi Blye, which blossomed into a fan-favorite romance and eventual marriage, showcased his ability to blend humor with genuine emotion. However, beyond the thrilling cases and comedic banter, Olsen’s real-life identity as a devoted father of three (soon to be four!) is where his most heartwarming stories lie. Throughout his time on NCIS: LA and into his new chapter as a producer, Olsen has consistently shared the sweetest, most candid tributes to his children, offering a glimpse into the profound impact fatherhood has had on his life.
Olsen, married to actress Sarah Wright Olsen since 2012, is a proud dad to son Wyatt Oliver (born 2013), and daughters Esmé Olivia (born 2016), and Winter Story (born 2020). The couple recently announced they are expecting their fourth child, due in summer 2025. Through anecdotes, social media posts, and interviews, Olsen has painted a beautiful picture of family life, revealing how his kids have softened him, challenged him, and ultimately, become his greatest joy.
The Transformation: From “Tough Guy” to “Softie”
Before becoming a father, Olsen might have projected a certain tough-guy persona, fitting for his action-oriented roles. However, he has openly admitted that fatherhood completely transformed him, turning him into an emotional “softie.”
“I’m such a sucker for that kid when he smiles,” Olsen once shared about his son, Wyatt, in an early interview. “He squints his eyes and he gets this big gummy smile, and it’s just emotions I didn’t know I had. I’ve become such a softie. I get tears in my eyes, and I get all excited. It’s just that’s not who I am.” This candid admission resonates with many parents who find themselves unexpectedly overwhelmed by the depth of love they feel for their children, discovering a tenderness they never knew existed within themselves.
This emotional transformation is a recurring theme in his discussions about his children, highlighting how his kids have unlocked a new level of empathy and affection within him, a stark contrast to the often stoic or sarcastic characters he has played.
Music Tastes and Personality: A Glimpse into Individual Quirks
Olsen often shares delightful insights into his children’s burgeoning personalities, particularly their unique musical preferences. This provides a charming peek into their individual quirks and the diverse tastes within his family.
“Esme’s in love with 90’s rock and always asks for the Red Hot Chili Peppers on the drive to school,” he once revealed. Meanwhile, “Wyatt loves Led Zeppelin and 70’s rock and early 90’s Hip Hop.” These anecdotes not only highlight their individual personalities but also showcase a vibrant, music-filled household, where classic rock and hip-hop are the soundtracks to their daily lives. Such details paint a relatable and endearing picture of family dynamics, making fans feel even more connected to the actor’s personal life.
The Home as a Sacred Space: Even Amidst Adversity
The Olsen family recently faced a devastating loss when their home was destroyed in the Los Angeles wildfires. Despite this profound personal tragedy, Olsen’s focus remained squarely on his family and the strength they found in each other. His wife, Sarah Wright Olsen, shared touching details about their children’s reactions, revealing the deep emotional connection they had to their home.
“Our kids have said ‘we all took our first steps there,'” Sarah shared on Instagram, encapsulating the profound sentimental value of their lost home. Eric, ever the pragmatist, acknowledged the loss but emphasized the outpouring of love from friends and family, which moved him deeply. “BUT, I have been perpetually blown away, eyes pooled, tears racing by the kindness, thoughtfulness, and generosity of our friends, family and complete strangers,” he penned. This experience further solidified the family’s bond and showcased their resilience in the face of adversity, with the children’s well-being being the paramount concern.
Parenthood as a Role Model: Learning from the Best
Olsen has also spoken about learning from his NCIS: LA co-stars, Chris O’Donnell and LL Cool J, both of whom are also fathers. He sought their advice on balancing a demanding career with family life. “They were right about that. You try to get a schedule with naps, with a bath every night, you read to them every night, you try to get into that type of pattern,” Olsen shared, emphasizing the importance of routine for young children. This shows his dedication to being a hands-on dad and a willingness to learn and adapt to the challenges of parenthood.
His commitment to his family is clear, as he has transitioned from a full-time acting role on NCIS: LA to a behind-the-scenes executive producer position for the Matlock reboot, starring Kathy Bates. This move, while allowing him to pursue new creative avenues, also provides him with a different kind of schedule that may offer more flexibility for his growing family.
The Future: A Growing Family and Enduring Love
With a fourth child on the way, the Olsen household is about to become even more vibrant. Eric Christian Olsen’s journey as a father is a testament to the profound and transformative power of parenthood. His sweet tributes to his children, from their unique personalities and musical tastes to the resilience they’ve shown as a family, paint a picture of a man who finds his greatest fulfillment not in the lights of Hollywood, but in the laughter and love of his home. As he embarks on new professional ventures, it’s clear that his role as a devoted husband and father remains his most cherished and celebrated identity.
Conclusion: Eric Christian Olsen — A Father First
Eric Christian Olsen’s candid and heartfelt tributes to his children offer a beautiful glimpse into the actor’s personal life, revealing a side beyond his memorable NCIS: LA character, Marty Deeks. His transformation into a “softie,” his delight in his children’s individual quirks, and his unwavering focus on family resilience, even through challenging times, underscore the profound impact of fatherhood. As his family continues to grow and he navigates new professional paths, Olsen’s consistent expression of love and admiration for his kids serves as a powerful reminder that for this talented actor, his greatest role is undoubtedly that of a doting dad.
