A Decade of Densi: The Long-Awaited Nuptials and a Showrunner’s Stroke of Genius
For years, NCIS: Los Angeles fans eagerly followed the slow-burn romance between LAPD liaison-turned-NCIS Investigator Marty Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen) and Special Agent Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah). Their relationship, affectionately dubbed “Densi” by the loyal fanbase, blossomed from playful banter and unspoken tension to a deep, committed love, culminating in their highly anticipated wedding in Season 10, Episode 17, titled “Till Death Do Us Part.” This episode was not just a celebration of their union; it was a testament to the show’s unique blend of action, humor, and heartfelt character moments. According to Eric Christian Olsen himself, this particular episode stands out as “the best version of what we do,” largely thanks to a “masterful” and “ingenious” twist that elevated it beyond a typical TV wedding.
The Densi wedding was a significant milestone for NCIS: LA. It represented the culmination of years of character development, overcoming personal demons, and navigating the perilous world of covert operations. The audience’s deep emotional investment in Kensi and Deeks meant the episode carried immense weight, and the pressure was on the writers to deliver. They not only met, but, as Olsen highlights, exceeded expectations by weaving in a surprising narrative element that was both true to the show’s essence and incredibly satisfying for long-time viewers.
The “Sunshine and Gunpowder” of It All: Blending Romance and Action
The defining characteristic of the Densi relationship, and indeed of NCIS: LA itself, was its seamless blend of heartfelt romance and thrilling action. Deeks famously described Kensi as smelling “like sunshine and gunpowder,” a perfect encapsulation of her duality – fierce and capable, yet warm and loving. The wedding episode was a direct reflection of this mantra.
While the primary focus was on the nuptials, the episode was far from a quiet, serene ceremony. In true NCIS: LA fashion, the wedding was interrupted by a high-stakes case involving an old foe, Anatoli Kirkin (Ravil Isyanov), and a myriad of mobsters. Kensi famously fought off assailants in her wedding dress, even tearing the hem to allow for more mobility during a fight. This chaotic yet exhilarating sequence ensured the episode maintained the show’s signature blend of “sunshine and gunpowder,” proving that even on their most special day, Densi would remain true to their adventurous selves. This blend resonated deeply with fans, who appreciated that the show didn’t sacrifice its identity for a traditional wedding episode.
The “Masterful” Twist: A Decade in the Making
What truly set the Densi wedding episode apart, according to Eric Christian Olsen, was an “ingenious” and “masterful” twist related to Kensi’s father’s wedding ring. This detail tied together years of subtle foreshadowing and demonstrated a remarkable level of long-term planning by the show’s writers.
The twist revolved around a small, sealed box that had been delivered to Kensi back in Season 4, Episode 14. Inside this box was a note from Kensi’s father, giving Deeks his wedding ring to wear. The “masterful” part, as Olsen and fans realized, was that Kensi had possessed this box for years, implying that she knew, even then, that Deeks was “the one” and that they would eventually marry. This level of foresight in the storytelling, a callback spanning six years of real-time episodes, was incredibly powerful.
Olsen himself marvelled at this detail, describing it as “a testament to the brilliance of the writers.” This twist transformed what could have been a simple, sentimental moment into a profound declaration of destiny and unwavering love, deeply satisfying to fans who had invested years in the Densi journey. It solidified their bond as something predestined, a love story written in the stars, making the payoff all the more impactful.
More Than Just a Wedding: A Celebration of Family
Beyond the central couple, the Densi wedding episode also served as a beautiful celebration of the extended NCIS: LA family. All the key team members – Callen, Sam, Nell, and Eric – were present, not just as colleagues but as true friends and family. Sam Hanna and Callen even walked Kensi down the aisle, a deeply touching moment that underscored the profound bonds forged within the team.
The episode also brought back Hetty Lange (Linda Hunt) as the officiant, a highly anticipated return that added another layer of emotional resonance. Her presence, albeit limited due to real-life circumstances, was a testament to her importance to the Densi relationship and the team as a whole. This inclusion made the wedding feel complete, with their surrogate mother figure overseeing their union. The shared joy and camaraderie among the entire cast created an atmosphere of genuine celebration, making viewers feel like they were part of the special day.
The Legacy of “Till Death Do Us Part”
“Till Death Do Us Part” remains a standout episode in NCIS: LA‘s 14-season run. It’s often cited by fans as one of the best “Densi” episodes, if not one of the best overall. Eric Christian Olsen’s praise for it as “the best version of what we do” isn’t just hyperbole; it speaks to the episode’s successful fusion of all the elements that made NCIS: LA so beloved:
- Compelling Action: The wedding day chaos provided the necessary adrenaline and high stakes.
- Heartfelt Romance: The emotional depth of Kensi and Deeks’ vows and their journey was palpable.
- Humor and Banter: Deeks’ signature wit and the team’s playful interactions were present throughout.
- Strong Character Development: The episode was a culmination of years of growth for both characters.
- Masterful Storytelling: The long-game twist with Kensi’s father’s ring showcased the writers’ ingenuity.
This episode didn’t just mark a new chapter for Kensi and Deeks; it showcased the show’s enduring strengths and its ability to deliver powerful, memorable moments that resonated deeply with its audience. It’s an episode that will be rewatched and cherished by fans for years to come.
Conclusion: A Perfect Marriage of Elements
Eric Christian Olsen’s enthusiastic endorsement of the Densi wedding episode as “the best version of what we do” for NCIS: Los Angeles is a testament to its enduring appeal and masterful execution. By seamlessly blending the show’s signature action-packed thrills with the heartfelt romance of its central couple, and by incorporating an “ingenious” and long-foreshadowed twist, “Till Death Do Us Part” became more than just a wedding episode. It was a celebration of love, family, and the unique spirit of NCIS: LA. For fans who invested years in Kensi and Deeks’ journey, it was a perfectly crafted payoff, solidifying its place as one of the most memorable and beloved episodes in the series’ impressive 14-year run.
