How co-star Eric Christian Olsen played matchmaker, and how Ruah and David Paul Olsen built a life full of love, kids, and career collaboration.
When Daniela Ruah walks onto a set, she does so with quiet strength, precision, and the intensity of someone who’s lived her role for over a decade. As Special Agent Kensi Blye on NCIS: Los Angeles, Ruah has captivated audiences with her fierce portrayal of one of TV’s most formidable female federal agents. But offscreen, her real-life role is just as compelling—wife, mother, and partner to stuntman David Paul Olsen, with whom she shares a relationship that could easily inspire its own television script.
In fact, the very place where she built her TV legacy is where her love story began.
A Match Made on Set
The chemistry between Kensi Blye and Marty Deeks on NCIS: Los Angeles has long been a fan-favorite dynamic, but behind the scenes, a different love story was quietly taking root. In a twist of Hollywood fate, Ruah ended up falling for her co-star’s brother.
David Paul Olsen is the older brother of Eric Christian Olsen, the actor who plays her on-screen husband. While Eric and Daniela were busy exchanging witty banter and busting criminals on screen, behind the scenes, Eric was acting as an undercover Cupid.
Appearing on The Queen Latifah Show in 2014, Eric shared the origin of the romance: “When [David] came on to do stunts, I would say something nice about her to him and then say something to her about him,” he recalled. “That was enough to kinda get them started in conversation—and it became this wonderful relationship.”
It certainly did. The stuntman and the actress officially tied the knot in 2014 in Portugal, surrounded by friends and family. Their bond, born from trust, teamwork, and a little gentle sibling intervention, grew into a lasting partnership both on and off the set.
Hollywood Stunts and Real-Life Balance
David Paul Olsen may not be a household name, but he’s appeared in some of Hollywood’s most physically demanding productions. His stunt credits include action-packed films like The Nun, Transformers, and Swiss Army Man. On NCIS: LA, David often doubled for his brother Eric, meaning he worked in the background of the same scenes his wife was starring in—a rare dynamic that only strengthened their connection.
Their working relationship isn’t without its quirks. When asked how it feels to watch her husband get thrown off buildings or into fire fights as a stunt performer, Ruah has expressed deep admiration for David’s work ethic and professionalism, though she admits there’s always a little anxiety watching him perform dangerous moves.
And yet, despite the high-stakes world they both inhabit, Ruah and Olsen have created a grounded, supportive home life centered around their two children: son River and daughter Sierra.
“I Love You Even More”: A Marriage Rooted in Growth
After more than a decade together and seven years of marriage by 2021, Ruah marked their anniversary with a touching Instagram tribute that melted fans’ hearts.
“After 7 years of marriage, 10 years together, 2 amazing kiddos and a year of constantly being home together, I’m thrilled that you still look at me this way,” she wrote alongside a romantic photo of the couple. “We have argued and loved and like so many other couples this year, we found a different stride & together went with it. I love making life plans with you and if it’s at all possible I love you even more. Happy anniversary babaaay!”
The post resonated with thousands of followers, who praised Ruah’s openness, her ability to balance Hollywood demands with heartfelt motherhood, and her refreshingly down-to-earth approach to love.
A Family That Works—and Grows—Together
One of the most compelling aspects of Ruah and Olsen’s relationship is how naturally their careers intersect with their family life. Whether it’s shooting scenes together on NCIS: Los Angeles or sharing behind-the-scenes moments from set and home on Instagram, the couple has made a habit of blending work and family—not just surviving Hollywood, but thriving in it.
Ruah frequently praises the NCIS: LA crew for creating a “family vibe” on set, once noting: “I need to shout it to the world how incredible our crew is. Every department, every human, every friend… they make magic happen in 70 hours.”
Her gratitude reflects not just a successful career, but a fulfilling life filled with the kind of teamwork and passion that goes beyond scripts and stunts.
What’s Next for the Power Couple?
Although NCIS: Los Angeles officially ended in 2023 after a 14-season run, the possibilities remain open for what’s next. Ruah has since taken on directing roles and continues to express interest in storytelling that highlights strong, multidimensional women. Meanwhile, David continues his work as a respected stunt performer in both film and television.
But perhaps their biggest shared role is simply being present—for their children, for each other, and for the evolving chapters of their life together.
The Takeaway:
Daniela Ruah and David Paul Olsen prove that even in an industry full of bright lights and fast-paced careers, real love can grow quietly, steadily, and deeply. Whether they’re working side by side on screen or enjoying quiet moments as a family, they’ve built a life that blends Hollywood sparkle with everyday magic.
And the best part? The story isn’t over yet.
