A Fond Farewell with a Touch of Melancholy: Daniela Ruah’s Honest Reflections on the NCIS: Los Angeles Finale
After an impressive fourteen seasons of high-octane action, intricate investigations, and the enduring camaraderie of its core team, NCIS: Los Angeles concluded its run in May 2023. For Daniela Ruah, who captivated audiences as the tenacious Special Agent Kensi Blye, the series finale marked the end of a significant chapter in her professional and personal life. In numerous interviews and social media posts following the show’s conclusion, Ruah has openly shared her feelings about saying goodbye to Kensi and the NCIS: LA family, describing the experience as profoundly “bittersweet.”
Ruah’s portrayal of Kensi Blye became a cornerstone of the show’s success. Her character’s strength, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty resonated deeply with viewers, and her dynamic partnership with Marty Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen), affectionately known as “Densi,” became one of the most beloved relationships in the NCIS universe. Spending over a decade embodying this iconic character naturally forged a deep connection for Ruah, making the show’s ending a deeply personal experience.
The Weight of Time and Shared Experiences: A Family Forged On-Screen
Fourteen seasons translates to a significant portion of an actor’s career, and for Daniela Ruah, NCIS: Los Angeles was more than just a job; it was a professional home and a place where lasting friendships were formed. The cast and crew became a close-knit family, sharing countless hours on set, navigating the challenges of production, and celebrating milestones both on and off-screen.
Ruah has frequently spoken about the strong bonds she developed with her co-stars, particularly Eric Christian Olsen, whose character was intrinsically linked to Kensi’s journey. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, fueled by a genuine off-screen friendship and even a familial connection through Ruah’s marriage to Olsen’s brother. This deep sense of connection amplified the emotional weight of the series coming to an end.
“Bittersweet”: Acknowledging Both Loss and Gratitude
Ruah’s consistent use of the term “bittersweet” to describe her feelings about the NCIS: Los Angeles finale perfectly encapsulates the complex emotions involved in saying goodbye to such a significant part of her life. The “bitter” aspect undoubtedly stems from the sadness of the show concluding, the end of daily interactions with her beloved cast and crew, and the closing of a chapter on a character she inhabited for so long.
However, the “sweet” side reflects the immense gratitude Ruah feels for the opportunity to have been a part of such a successful and enduring series. She has often expressed appreciation for the fans who passionately supported the show for fourteen seasons, for the writers and producers who crafted compelling storylines for Kensi, and for the incredible journey of bringing this character to life.
Finding Closure and Looking Towards the Future
While the ending of a long-running show can be emotionally challenging, Ruah has also conveyed a sense of acceptance and readiness for what the future holds. In various interviews, she has spoken about the feeling that the time was right for the series to conclude, allowing the characters to have a sense of closure and for the actors to explore new creative avenues.
This perspective highlights a mature and pragmatic approach to the end of NCIS: Los Angeles. While acknowledging the sadness of saying goodbye, Ruah also embraces the opportunity for new beginnings and the chance to take on different roles and challenges in her career.
The Enduring Legacy of Kensi Blye: A Character That Resonated
Daniela Ruah’s portrayal of Kensi Blye left an indelible mark on the NCIS franchise. Kensi was a multifaceted character – tough and skilled in combat, yet also compassionate and fiercely loyal to her team. Her journey, from a somewhat mysterious background to a deeply committed agent and loving partner, resonated with viewers who admired her strength and vulnerability.
Ruah’s dedication to the role and her ability to bring Kensi to life with such authenticity ensured that the character became a fan favorite and a significant part of the show’s enduring appeal. The “bittersweet” ending for Ruah also reflects the audience’s feelings about saying goodbye to Kensi and the entire NCIS: Los Angeles team.
Conclusion: A Fond Farewell, But Kensi Lives On in Our Hearts
Daniela Ruah’s reflections on the ending of NCIS: Los Angeles as “bittersweet” perfectly capture the complex emotions surrounding the conclusion of a beloved, long-running series. While there is undoubtedly sadness in saying goodbye to Kensi Blye and the NCIS: LA family, there is also immense gratitude for the incredible journey and the lasting impact the show has had on both the actors and the audience. Ruah’s heartfelt words underscore the deep connections forged over fourteen seasons and the enduring legacy of a character who will continue to live on in the hearts of fans for years to come. The “bittersweet” farewell marks the end of a significant chapter, but also opens the door for new beginnings and the continued appreciation for the unforgettable world of NCIS: Los Angeles.
