Stepping behind the camera on NCIS: Los Angeles was a major milestone for Daniela Ruah — but one moment made her especially nervous: directing TV legend Gerald McRaney.
McRaney, who joined the series as the commanding Admiral Hollace Kilbride, brought decades of experience and undeniable gravitas to the set. Ruah admitted she initially hesitated to give him any direction at all. But her fears quickly disappeared.
According to Ruah, McRaney was not only open to notes — he was deeply collaborative. “This is something we do together,” he told her, instantly setting her at ease. Far from intimidating, McRaney proved humble, generous, and ego-free.
For Ruah, the experience perfectly captured what made NCIS: LA special for 14 seasons: respect, teamwork, and trust — on screen and off.