The actress-director discusses the emotional impact and responsibility behind the episode “Flesh & Blood.”
Timing often plays a crucial role in television production, and for NCIS: Los Angeles star Daniela Ruah, who portrays Kensi Blye, that timing aligned perfectly when she was tapped to direct the emotional episode “Flesh & Blood.” Though directors are typically assigned episodes before scripts are completed, it turned out to be fitting that a female director helmed this one, as it tackles the sensitive subject of domestic violence.
The episode, which aired Sunday night, is notable for its raw emotional tone. Ruah’s direction brings nuance to a difficult topic, something she approaches with care. Speaking to Parade in an exclusive interview, she reflects on the value of diverse perspectives in storytelling.
“I wouldn’t necessarily say women are more sensitive—just differently sensitive,” Ruah explained. “It’s essential to share stories through a woman’s lens and to have more women in all facets of the industry. That said, I also deeply respect my male colleagues. The men I work with are compassionate and would also handle this topic with care.”
In “Flesh & Blood,” Deeks (played by Eric Christian Olsen) interrogates a female suspect and notices bruises on her arm. Realizing she’s likely a victim of abuse, he requests privacy to speak with her. During the exchange, he shares a personal story about his mother, building trust—though he initially leaves out the fact that he shot his abusive father, revealing it later in the episode.
It’s a highly charged scene emotionally, but Ruah credits her cast with making it impactful. Marnee Carpenter plays the abuse victim, and together with Olsen, delivers one of the most gripping moments of the episode.
“When you have the opportunity to work with actors like Eric and Marnee, who are so open and connected emotionally, my job becomes much easier,” Ruah shared. “As a director, sometimes it’s about recognizing when to simply let the moment breathe—just find the right camera angle and let the actors lead.”
Ruah emphasized that understanding when to step in and when to let the actors take the reins is key to good directing.
“There are scenes that need more shaping, and then there are moments like this, where it’s more about being present and letting the authenticity of the performance shine through.”
The episode also features the return of Deeks’ mother, Roberta (played by Pamela Reed), who resurfaces after being away on what she calls her own Eat Pray Love-style journey across the country. Her return helps tie the themes of family, healing, and emotional growth together.
