NCIS: Los Angeles wrapped up its 14-season run earlier this year, saying goodbye to one of the longest-running and most beloved teams on television. But while the finale served up a heartfelt farewell to many of its central characters, one fan-favorite face was notably absent: Barrett Foa.
Foa, who originated the role of tech whiz Eric Beale when the spinoff launched in 2009, did not appear in the series’ final episode, which aired on May 21. His quirky charm and on-screen chemistry with Renée Felice Smith’s Nell Jones made him a standout from the very beginning. Naturally, fans were surprised — and a bit disappointed — not to see him return for the send-off.
Speaking exclusively to TVLine, Foa shared his feelings on missing out on the finale, saying, “Reprising the role would’ve been a dream.” Still, he expressed gratitude that Eric was at least acknowledged in the episode. “I’m happy the character was mentioned,” he added.
Showrunner R. Scott Gemmill also weighed in, explaining that scheduling and availability issues ultimately prevented Foa’s return.
For longtime viewers, Foa’s last appearance came during the season 12 finale back in 2021. In that episode, Eric — who had stepped away from the OSP — reemerged as a tech mogul after creating the Kaleidoscope project. Now wealthy and planning to open an international HQ in Tokyo, he offered Nell the chance to lead the new venture alongside him. Though she turned down Hetty’s job, the episode ended with the pair seemingly heading into a new chapter together.
Even without a physical return, Eric wasn’t forgotten. In the finale, “New Beginnings Part Two,” Nell provided a quick but meaningful update: Eric was off in Singapore, giving a TED Talk — a fitting detail for the eccentric, brilliant analyst turned entrepreneur.
While Foa’s absence left fans imagining what could have been, the series still managed to bring back other familiar faces, including Nell, and offered a proper farewell to the show’s loyal fanbase.
And with the larger NCIS universe still thriving, who’s to say Eric Beale’s story is truly over? As Foa himself hinted, the door may not be fully closed.
