The real reason behind those sun-drenched scenes across L.A.
If you’ve ever watched an episode of NCIS: Los Angeles and thought, “Why does it always seem like it’s daytime in this show?” — you’re not imagining it.
While the action-packed spin-off of the original NCIS franchise has delivered countless thrilling cases and high-stakes missions over the years, one subtle but consistent detail stands out: night scenes are rare. And that creative decision has everything to do with the city itself.
🌇 Los Angeles: A Star in Its Own Right
Unlike its darker-toned sibling series like NCIS: New Orleans or NCIS: Hawaii, NCIS: Los Angeles embraces the sun. According to star Chris O’Donnell, there’s a clear reason for that — Los Angeles is more than just a backdrop.
“The whole world … we’re on in 220 countries. They want to see Los Angeles,” O’Donnell explained in an interview with CBS News. “It’s one of those iconic cities that people are fascinated with.”
From Malibu beaches to downtown rooftops and quirky residential neighborhoods, NCIS: L.A. treats its setting like a supporting cast member. The show’s visual language leans into daylight, warmth, and iconic locations that reflect a vibrant, almost postcard-like version of the city.
📍 Location, Location, Location
Filming during the day allows the production to capture L.A. in its full glory — palm-lined streets, golden-hour sun, and blue skies that scream “Southern California.” This makes NCIS: Los Angeles stand apart from grittier, more noir-toned procedurals that use night as a canvas for suspense.
Even after over a decade on air, the series continues to find new nooks and neighborhoods in the city, thanks to its dynamic approach to location shooting.
“It never ceases to amaze me,” said O’Donnell. “We’ll show up at a neighborhood I didn’t know existed.”
🌃 But Don’t Mistake Bright for Lighthearted
Just because NCIS: L.A. isn’t draped in shadow doesn’t mean it avoids darkness in tone. From terrorist threats to undercover sting operations and emotionally gut-wrenching character arcs, the show doesn’t shy away from dramatic material. But it does tell those stories in a city bathed in sunlight — a unique juxtaposition that reflects its West Coast energy.
🎬 A Broader NCIS Strategy
This creative decision is part of a larger philosophy across the NCIS universe. As Deadline reported, NCIS: New Orleans leaned heavily into the city’s music and culinary culture. NCIS: Hawaii offers tropical terrain and naval-centric narratives. Each show uses its location as an integral storytelling tool — but only NCIS: L.A. fully integrates daylight and cityscape into its DNA.
☀️ In the End, L.A. Shines Bright for a Reason
NCIS: Los Angeles may be packed with federal agents, covert missions, and national security threats, but it’s also a love letter to its city. By avoiding nighttime shoots and leaning into the sun-drenched visuals of Southern California, the series continues to celebrate the very thing that makes it feel different: the soul of Los Angeles.
After all, what better way to show off the City of Angels — to 220 countries — than under its signature blue skies?
Catch reruns of NCIS: Los Angeles on streaming platforms, and stay tuned for updates on the franchise’s next steps.
