Even though NCIS: Los Angeles ended its 14-season run with heartfelt farewells and new beginnings, actor Chris O’Donnell wasn’t quite ready to say goodbye — and neither were his castmates.
In a recent interview with TV Insider, O’Donnell, who portrayed fan-favorite Special Agent G. Callen, revealed that the cast and producers had floated the idea of an NCIS: LA movie to CBS. The goal? To tie up lingering plot threads, revisit unfinished business, and give longtime fans one final mission with the team they grew up watching.
“We thought there was a really strong case for it — a two-hour movie that could bring everyone back and dig deeper into Hetty’s storyline or even explore new threats,” O’Donnell said. “The whole cast was on board.”
But despite their enthusiasm, CBS ultimately passed on the pitch. The network felt the series finale had already provided a satisfying send-off and expressed interest in focusing on new projects under the broader NCIS umbrella — including the hit spinoff NCIS: Sydney and the upcoming prequel series NCIS: Origins.
🔍 Hetty’s Cliffhanger Remains… a Cliffhanger
One of the biggest unresolved storylines that fans hoped the movie would explore is Hetty Lange’s (Linda Hunt) mysterious final appearance. In the finale, she was seen alive and operating covertly overseas — a shocking reveal that was never explained.
“We had ideas,” O’Donnell added with a smile. “Big ideas. And Hetty was right in the middle of them.”
💬 Fans React
Online, fans have voiced support for the movie concept — and disappointment that it wasn’t greenlit.
“A movie would’ve been perfect to wrap up Hetty’s arc and bring everyone back together. Still hoping it happens someday,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).
Another chimed in, “If NCIS: LA could come back for just one more op, I’d be there day one.”
🚪 Never Say Never?
While CBS has shelved the idea for now, O’Donnell left the door slightly open.
“You never know with these shows. Stranger things have happened. If the right script comes along — or the fans make enough noise — maybe we’ll be back for one more ride.”
Until then, NCIS: LA remains a completed mission — but in the world of television, even closed case files have a way of reappearing.
