Season 1 — “Callen, G” (Episode 1)
The pilot introduced fans to the West Coast’s elite undercover team with a bang — literally. When Special Agent G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell) is ambushed and nearly killed, the team bands together for a thrilling introduction that set the tone for the entire series.
Season 2 — “Personal” (Episode 17)
After Nell is nearly killed, Deeks goes full protector mode. This episode deepens the team’s emotional bonds and gives fans an early glimpse of the loyalty and connection that define the show.
Season 3 — “Neighborhood Watch” (Episode 22)
Kensi and Deeks go undercover as a married couple in suburbia — and fans loved every second of it. The romantic tension, humor, and danger made this episode a standout for Densi shippers and newcomers alike.
Season 4 — “Descent” (Episode 24)
An action-packed season finale that ended with a massive cliffhanger: Michelle Hanna is captured, and Sam and Deeks are tortured. One of the show’s darkest and most shocking endings.
Season 5 — “Spoils of War” (Episode 19)
The emotional rescue of Sam’s wife, Michelle, after her abduction brings a dramatic payoff to the season’s overarching threat — and showcases the team’s deep personal stakes in their missions.
Season 6 — “Humbug” (Episode 11)
Set around Christmas, this lighthearted but emotionally significant episode sees Callen introducing Joelle to his team — and starts unraveling her true identity. Holiday cheer meets spy games.
Season 7 — “Granger, O” (Episode 16)
When Assistant Director Owen Granger (Miguel Ferrer) collapses during an investigation, the episode becomes an unexpectedly emotional tribute to a fan-favorite character and the man who played him.
Season 8 — “Uncaged” (Episode 23)
A heart-pounding episode that sees Michelle Hanna kidnapped again — but this time with a devastating outcome. The loss of Sam’s wife changes the trajectory of his character and the show.
Season 9 — “The Monster” (Episode 4)
The introduction of Assistant Director Shay Mosley and a chilling serial killer plot made this episode a psychological thriller and a shift into darker storytelling for the team.
Season 10 — “The Guardian” (Episode 14)
This Afghanistan-based episode brought Kensi’s strength into focus as she worked with military teams under fire — while Deeks struggled back home. It was emotional, tense, and beautifully shot.
Season 11 — “Mother” (Episode 10)
An emotionally intense episode centered on Hetty’s past — and Nell’s future. Featuring the return of a dangerous enemy and an introspective Hetty, this was a love letter to longtime fans.
Season 12 — “A Fait Accompli” (Episode 12)
The long-awaited Densi engagement becomes official! Fans were thrilled when Deeks proposed, marking a joyous and heartfelt moment in an otherwise unpredictable season.
Season 13 — “Work & Family” (Episode 1)
The season premiere balances personal and professional shifts. Deeks and Kensi contemplate parenthood, Callen starts questioning Hetty’s secrets again, and Sam finds a new rhythm post-Michelle.
Season 14 — “New Beginnings” (Episodes 20–21)
The series finale. This two-part episode gave each character a graceful exit or a hopeful new direction — including Kensi and Deeks expanding their family and Callen and Anna’s wedding. It was emotional, respectful, and deeply satisfying.
