The NCIS: Los Angeles star opens up about her husband, their kids, and life after Kensi Blye
Former NCIS: Los Angeles star Daniela Ruah gave fans a glimpse into her private world this week, posting a touching—and rare—tribute to her husband David Paul Olsen, alongside a sweet photo of their two children. While Daniela has remained largely private about her family life, this Father’s Day moment was too special not to share.
The actress, 41, took to Instagram with a breathtaking snapshot: her husband and two children—11-year-old River and eight-year-old Sierra—clad in scuba suits, backs to the camera, perched together on a rocky coastal cove. The moment radiates peace, strength, and unity, all qualities that shine through in her words.
“Happy belated Father’s Day to the best daddy we could ask for… You love our cubs fiercely and I’m so lucky I get to raise them with you.”
A Love Story Born on Set
Daniela’s romance with David Paul Olsen has roots in her time on NCIS: LA—and it’s practically a Hollywood fairy tale. David is the older brother of Eric Christian Olsen, Daniela’s on-screen partner and now real-life brother-in-law. Eric, ever the matchmaker, introduced them on set, where David worked as his stunt double.
The two tied the knot in 2014, and their bond continues to inspire fans who watched their love story unfold off-screen.
From Navy SEAL to Inventor
David, 49, is more than just a devoted father—he’s also a former Navy SEAL and the founder of The Garrison Door, a high-security door-locking system he designed after his own family faced a terrifying home invasion. On the company’s website, David shared the story that changed everything:
“We came home to find our door kicked in and the sanctuary of our home desecrated… We had very few items of value, but that didn’t stop the thieves from destroying property… What if my family had been home?”
Driven by the need to protect what matters most, David turned that fear into innovation, crafting a solution grounded in military-grade resilience.
A New Chapter Behind the Camera
Since bidding farewell to Kensi Blye, Daniela Ruah hasn’t slowed down—instead, she’s stepped behind the camera. She’s directed episodes of NCIS and NCIS: Hawai’i, and most recently took the reins on The Equalizer.
“It was actually a very seamless transition,” she told Parade. “We put the work in and made calls… For The Equalizer, it’s procedural, so definitely in my comfort zone. But I’d love to expand beyond that too.”
As a working mom of two, she’s balancing family life with a thriving career—proving that there’s life after Kensi, and it’s just as bold and purposeful.
Bottom Line: Whether she’s directing hit dramas or celebrating quiet family moments, Daniela Ruah is thriving. With a powerful love story, two growing kids, and a partner who’s a hero in more ways than one, it’s no wonder she says, “I’m so lucky.”
