It’s hard to imagine NCIS: Los Angeles without Densi — but that iconic relationship almost didn’t happen.
Daniela Ruah originally portrayed Kensi Blye as rigid and emotionally closed off. When Eric Christian Olsen joined as Deeks, the mismatch threatened audience connection. Showrunner Shane Brennan recognized the risk and pushed for change.
By allowing Kensi to react with warmth — even subtly — the dynamic shifted. That decision didn’t just save Deeks as a character; it reshaped the entire series.
From their wedding to Kensi’s finale pregnancy reveal, many of the show’s most memorable moments exist because Kensi was allowed to evolve.