When NCIS: Los Angeles ended in 2023 after 14 seasons, its cast quickly moved into new chapters. Daniela Ruah stayed within the franchise as a director. LL Cool J made appearances on the now-canceled NCIS: Hawai‘i. Eric Christian Olsen pivoted behind the camera, becoming an executive producer on the Kathy Bates–led Matlock.
Now, another core star is officially making a major move—this time to a rival network.
Chris O’Donnell Signs On for 9-1-1: Nashville
Chris O’Donnell, beloved for his long-running role as Special Agent G. Callen, has booked his first major series since NCIS: LA wrapped—and he’s jumping to a new procedural universe entirely.
As first reported by Variety, O’Donnell will headline 9-1-1: Nashville, the newest spin-off in the hit Ryan Murphy franchise. Announced in February, the series follows first responders in Tennessee’s capital and is set to debut during the 2025–26 TV season.
O’Donnell will play Captain Don Sharpe, described as “a rugged fire captain and rodeo rider who runs Nashville’s busiest firehouse alongside his son.” While devoted to his family, Don is also a man carrying secrets—setting the stage for a layered character far removed from Callen’s world of undercover ops.
A Shifting 9-1-1 Universe
The franchise originally explored a Las Vegas spin-off, but the concept was shelved in favor of Nashville. This marks the second official offshoot following 9-1-1: Lone Star, which ended after five seasons earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the flagship 9-1-1 continues its strong eighth season on ABC, with cast member Ryan Guzman teasing “massive changes” still to come.
Where the NCIS Franchise Stands
While 9-1-1 expands, NCIS remains a dominant TV universe with six active and legacy spin-offs, including:
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NCIS: Los Angeles — ended in 2023 after 14 seasons
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NCIS: New Orleans — ended after seven seasons
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NCIS: Hawai‘i — concluded after three seasons
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NCIS: Sydney — airing its second season, renewed for a third
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NCIS: Origins — renewed for season 2
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NCIS: Tony & Ziva — expected to premiere later this year
Even as the franchise grows and evolves, O’Donnell’s move marks one of the most high-profile departures to a competing procedural universe.
With 9-1-1: Nashville gearing up for production, fans will soon see the former G. Callen trading covert missions for firehouse leadership—and bringing a new edge to the franchise’s expanding world.
