From Surfing Crime Scenes to Producing Prime-Time TV, The Man Behind Marty Deeks Keeps Evolving
After a 14-season run, NCIS: Los Angeles wrapped its final case in May 2023. While viewers said a bittersweet goodbye to the high-stakes drama, one face from the show left a particularly lasting impression—Eric Christian Olsen, known to millions as the wisecracking, tough-loving Marty Deeks. But Olsen’s journey is far richer than his on-screen persona, stretching from humble beginnings and early missteps to impressive transformations in both body and career.
From Iowa Roots to Hollywood Heights
Born into a family that defines the word “accomplished,” Eric Christian Olsen grew up surrounded by inspiration. His father, Dr. Paul Olsen, was a revered English professor and award-winning track coach. His mother, Jeanne Olsen, brought care and wisdom as a hospital chaplain. His brother, David Paul Olsen, took a different route—through the ranks of the Navy SEALs before transitioning into a career as a Hollywood stuntman.
Clearly, greatness runs in the family.
Delayed Diplomas & Early Breaks
Olsen’s own path to stardom started in the halls of Pepperdine University and quickly detoured onto television sets. His 1994 debut in ER launched a series of small roles before the breakout opportunity came in the 2003 comedy Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd. Though critics panned the film, Olsen and co-star Derek Richardson were still nominated for a Teen Choice Award, thanks to undeniable chemistry.
His time at Pepperdine stretched out longer than expected, but in 2007 Olsen finally graduated—more seasoned in both academia and Hollywood. Reflecting back, he credited those formative years for profound personal growth.
Meeting the Love of His Life—With a Rough Start
Fate intervened in 2006 on the set of The Loop, where Olsen met his future wife, actress Sarah Wright. Initially, sparks flew—in the wrong direction. Olsen admitted he wrongly judged her as “just a pretty face” and treated her poorly. Luckily, he owned up to his mistake, apologized, and the two began a romance that would lead to one of Hollywood’s most charming families.
They married in 2012 in a laid-back Wyoming ceremony officiated by Olsen’s father, with sunglasses, TOMS shoes, and all the rustic magic of the Tetons in the backdrop. Now parents to three children—Wyatt, Esme, and Winter—the couple shares glimpses of their joyful life on social media, where their genuine connection shines.
From Scene-Stealer to Scriptwriter
Though Olsen’s NCIS: LA role was never meant to be long-term (the original character concept was “Victor Cruz,” a completely different archetype), his fan-favorite debut in Season 1’s “Hand to Hand” changed everything. A memorable MMA fight scene—choreographed the same morning—cemented Deeks as a standout. His chemistry with co-star Daniela Ruah only deepened his impact.
By Season 11, Olsen stepped behind the camera to co-write the milestone 250th episode, “Mother,” a Hetty-centric thriller praised by critics. He later penned “Live Free or Die Standing” in Season 13, directed by none other than sister-in-law Daniela Ruah. That’s right—Daniela is married to Eric’s brother David, Olsen having played accidental matchmaker for the duo years earlier on set.
Pandemic Pivot: Body & Mind Reboot
The COVID-19 lockdown grounded most of Hollywood, but Olsen saw it as an opportunity for transformation. Swapping studio weights for home workouts, he sculpted an impressive physique—documented by his wife on Instagram in a photo that left fans stunned and Sarah hilariously captioned, “You know what’s really great? When your husband gets in the best shape of his life when you’re 8 months pregnant.”
Burpees with baby Esme perched on his back became part of the routine, showing not only dedication to fitness but also to fatherhood. The transformation wasn’t just about looks—it reflected a deeper drive toward balance, health, and longevity.
Next Act: Executive Producer
While NCIS: LA may be in the rearview mirror, Olsen isn’t slowing down. He’s shifted gears into executive producing with CBS’ Matlock reboot starring Oscar-winner Kathy Bates. A modern reimagining of the 1986 classic, the show follows attorney Madeline Matlock as she dives back into the courtroom, using unconventional methods to uncover corruption.
Slated for CBS’s 2023–2024 season, the new project has already earned praise from industry peers. Olsen’s former co-star Renée Felice Smith cheered on Instagram: “Celebrating this HUGE WIN!” Clearly, the man once known as Deeks is more than ready to script his next chapter.
Final Thoughts
Eric Christian Olsen’s journey is one of evolution—professionally, physically, and personally. From misunderstood first impressions to becoming a family man, from being a scrappy surfer cop on screen to shaping stories from behind the scenes, Olsen continues to surprise fans and colleagues alike.
Whether writing scripts, raising children, or producing CBS’s next hit, one thing’s clear: the stunning transformation of Eric Christian Olsen is far from over.
