The Fight for More: Chris O’Donnell Reveals Cast’s Attempt to Save ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’
The cancellation of NCIS: Los Angeles in 2023 after a remarkable 14-season run left a significant void in the hearts of its dedicated fanbase. For years, viewers tuned in to watch Special Agent G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell), Sam Hanna (LL Cool J), Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah), and Marty Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen) tackle high-stakes cases in the City of Angels. While the series managed to deliver a satisfying, albeit bittersweet, finale, star Chris O’Donnell recently revealed that the cast and crew were not content to let the show go quietly. In a candid interview, O’Donnell shared that they “suggested” a plan to save the beloved spin-off, specifically pitching a TV movie to CBS to wrap up loose ends. Unfortunately, their efforts, born from a deep love for the show and its family-like atmosphere, did not come to fruition.
NCIS: Los Angeles had become a cornerstone of CBS’s Sunday night lineup, consistently drawing in millions of viewers with its blend of intense action, complex character development, and unique procedural format. Its abrupt cancellation in January 2023, while allowing producers time to craft a proper series finale, still came as a surprise to many, including the cast. The primary reasons cited for the show’s demise were rising production costs, particularly for a long-running drama with big-name leads filming in a high-cost city like Los Angeles, and the network’s desire to “freshen up” its schedule.
The Pitch: A TV Movie to Tie Up Loose Ends
Chris O’Donnell, currently promoting his new role in the upcoming ABC spin-off 9-1-1: Nashville, recently spoke with TVLine about his time on NCIS: Los Angeles and the efforts made to keep the story going. When asked about the possibility of a television movie to address unresolved storylines, especially concerning the fan-favorite character Hetty Lange (Linda Hunt), O’Donnell confirmed that such an idea was indeed floated by the cast.
“We suggested it actually,” O’Donnell revealed. He further explained that the idea gained traction during the dual Hollywood strikes (SAG-AFTRA and WGA) that halted production in 2023. “When we were all sitting around during the strike,” he recalled, “we were like we could crank one of these out in about six weeks, and it would actually be great.” This sentiment perfectly captures the camaraderie and dedication of the NCIS: LA cast, who truly enjoyed working together and wanted to provide more closure for their characters and fans.
However, despite their enthusiasm and the clear desire to revisit their roles, the pitch didn’t align with CBS’s strategic vision. “But I don’t think that formula works really well for CBS,” O’Donnell noted, indicating that the network might not see TV movies as a profitable or fitting extension for their long-running procedural dramas. This decision, while disappointing for the cast and viewers, reflects the complex business realities of network television, where cost-effectiveness and scheduling strategies often trump creative desires for extended storytelling.
The Lingering Hetty Mystery: A Key Loose End
One of the most significant unresolved plotlines that a TV movie could have addressed was the fate of Henrietta “Hetty” Lange. For much of the final season, Hetty’s whereabouts and safety remained a mystery, with brief updates hinting at her being in a dangerous “DMZ.” Fans had a deep emotional investment in Hetty, played by the legendary Linda Hunt, and her absence was keenly felt.
When O’Donnell was informed during the interview that LL Cool J’s character, Sam Hanna, had recently provided an update on Hetty (revealing she was indeed “stuck in a DMZ”), he learned it along with the fans. This highlights the practical challenges that arise when a series concludes, and actors move on to new projects, sometimes losing direct touch with the ongoing narratives of their former characters within the wider universe. A TV movie would have offered a dedicated platform to properly conclude Hetty’s storyline, giving her and her devoted fanbase the satisfying send-off she deserved.
The Cast’s Unbreakable Bond: “It Was Tough to Leave”
O’Donnell’s comments underscore the deep bond shared by the NCIS: Los Angeles cast. His regret over the show ending was palpable: “It was tough to leave because everyone just loved working with each other.” This sentiment is common among actors who spend over a decade together, forming a close-knit “family” on set. The camaraderie between O’Donnell, LL Cool J, Daniela Ruah, and Eric Christian Olsen was a significant part of the show’s appeal, translating into believable on-screen chemistry and a genuine sense of teamwork.
The cast’s willingness to “crank out” a TV movie in a relatively short timeframe during the strikes speaks volumes about their commitment and their desire to continue working together. This wasn’t just about professional obligations; it was about preserving a cherished working relationship and giving more to the fans who had supported them for so long.
Life After ‘NCIS: LA’: New Horizons for the Cast
While the NCIS: LA chapter has closed for O’Donnell, he, like his fellow cast members, has moved on to new and exciting projects. As mentioned, O’Donnell is taking on a lead role in ABC’s 9-1-1: Nashville, where he will play Captain Don Sharpe, a rugged fire captain and rodeo rider. He expressed excitement about playing a different character and finding a “new family” on a different network.
LL Cool J has continued his involvement in the NCIS universe, making appearances as Sam Hanna in NCIS: Hawaiʻi, further cementing his character’s legacy. Daniela Ruah has moved into directing, including episodes of the NCIS franchise, and has also taken on new acting roles. Eric Christian Olsen has been actively involved in producing and developing new projects through his production company, Gekko.
The fact that the characters of NCIS: Los Angeles continue to be mentioned in the wider NCIS universe (like Callen and Anna expecting a baby, and Sam Hanna’s current status) offers a glimmer of hope that their stories are still unfolding, even if not directly on their original show. This allows fans to imagine their beloved characters’ continued adventures, even without a dedicated series.
The Enduring Legacy of ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’
Despite the network’s decision to not pursue a TV movie, NCIS: Los Angeles leaves behind an impressive legacy. It was the first and longest-running NCIS spin-off, airing for 14 seasons and 322 episodes. Its success paved the way for further expansions of the franchise, including NCIS: New Orleans, NCIS: Hawaiʻi, and the upcoming NCIS: Sydney and NCIS: Origins.
The show’s blend of high-octane action, covert operations, and deep character relationships resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. It explored complex themes of identity, family, and loyalty, all wrapped within a compelling procedural framework. The revelations from Chris O’Donnell about the cast’s proactive efforts to extend the show’s life only serve to highlight the genuine passion that went into making NCIS: Los Angeles such a beloved and long-lasting series.
Conclusion: A Fond Farewell, A Lasting Impact
Chris O’Donnell’s revelation that the NCIS: Los Angeles cast attempted to save their beloved spin-off with a TV movie offers a poignant glimpse into the actors’ dedication and their bond with the show. While their efforts, unfortunately, didn’t align with CBS’s plans, it underscores the deep affection they held for their characters and the world they created. The show’s cancellation was tough for both the cast and the millions of fans who tuned in weekly. However, the legacy of NCIS: Los Angeles lives on, not just in its impressive run and the continued presence of its characters in the wider NCIS universe, but also in the heartfelt efforts of its stars like Chris O’Donnell who truly fought to keep the story going. For fans, this insight provides a comforting reminder of the passion that made NCIS: Los Angeles an iconic part of television history.
