Daniela Ruah has always opened her heart to her fans—whether through her fierce on-screen presence as Special Agent Kensi Blye or glimpses into her personal life shared on social media. But this week, the NCIS: Los Angeles alum posted one of her most vulnerable messages yet.
The actress, 41, revealed that her family is grieving the loss of their beloved dog, Roxy, who had been by their side for 15 cherished years. The news prompted an outpouring of love and support from fans, friends, and former castmates, who know just how deeply rooted Roxy was in the Ruah-Olsen household.
A Heartfelt Goodbye
In a moving Instagram tribute, Daniela posted a video montage that chronicled Roxy’s life—from wide-eyed puppy to gentle senior—accompanied by heartfelt words that left few dry-eyed. The clip included photos of Roxy snuggled up with her family’s other dogs, resting at the feet of Daniela and her husband David Paul Olsen, and curled up with their children, River Isaac, 11, and Sierra Esther, 8.
“A few days ago, we said goodbye to our sweet pup, Roxy,” Daniela wrote. “Her absence feels incredibly surreal, and it’s taken me some time to gather the words to share this. It was her time to go, but my heart hasn’t caught up yet.”
For the Portuguese-American actress, who spent 14 years on NCIS: LA before the show concluded in 2023, Roxy was far more than a pet—she was a steadfast companion through the whirlwind of a growing family, a demanding TV career, and countless life milestones.
Fifteen Years of Loyalty and Love
Daniela recalled the small but powerful ways Roxy had imprinted on their everyday life. “For 15 years, I’d see that tail wagging when we came home, watch her shake her head like a horse when we said ‘food’ or ‘walk,’ and see her excitedly jump into the car when it was time for a road trip.”
But with time came change. “Her tail wagged a little slower, her head shook gentler, and she needed help getting into the car,” she wrote. “Her eyes grew cloudy, her ears less sensitive, and she slept more often.”
Still, through every stage of her life, Roxy remained the same at her core. “There was always room for cuddles, and she always welcomed love,” Daniela added. “Always sweet, always ours.”
In one particularly moving moment, Daniela captured the lasting emotional bond: “Fifteen years with Roxy, who sat by my side through the changes of a growing family. She is etched into my soul forever.”
A Family in Mourning
Daniela’s husband, David Paul Olsen—who is also the brother of her NCIS: LA co-star Eric Christian Olsen—shared in the grief along with their children. Over the years, Roxy had become as much a part of their family fabric as any human member. Her loss was not just a pet passing away; it was the closing of a chapter that had defined so many of their shared experiences.
Daniela’s Instagram comments quickly filled with words of support. One fan wrote: “Oh Dani, I’m so, so sorry. Roxy was so adorable. I know how much love she was surrounded with daily and what joy she brought to your family. My heart goes out to you, Dave, & the kids.”
Another added, “So heartbreaking. I’m sorry, Dani. Sending you all so much love.”
A Life Beyond the Screen
Since NCIS: Los Angeles wrapped its long-running story in May 2023, Ruah has been relishing time with her family, traveling, and working behind the camera. Still, fans have kept close tabs on her journey—especially those who’ve followed her from the show’s beginning.
Whether she’s sharing snippets of a quiet family vacation in Idaho with the Olsens or posting photos with her rarely-seen children, her authenticity continues to resonate. And her candid message about Roxy struck a deep chord with followers who know the agony of losing a beloved pet.
The Unseen Co-Star
While Roxy may never have appeared on set, she was always a part of Daniela’s world behind the scenes—waiting at home after long shoot days, tagging along on car rides, offering silent comfort after emotional storylines or chaotic schedules. For Daniela, Roxy wasn’t just “the family dog.” She was a co-star in her life’s most important role: mother, wife, and woman navigating fame and family.
In the end, Daniela’s words say it best. “She is etched into my soul forever.”
