NCIS has a long history of characters coming and going without clear resolutions, but Season 22, Episode 13, missed a golden opportunity to update fans on the fate of NCIS: Los Angeles’ Hetty Lange (Linda Hunt). While the episode’s main plot revolves around McGee (Sean Murray) running a school fundraiser, a subplot involving Kasie (Diona Reasonover) working across NCIS sister offices hints at connections to multiple spinoffs, including NCIS: LA.
A Subtle Update on LA
Kasie’s emails and whiteboard tracking reveal that Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah) has returned to work following the birth of her child, and Callen (Chris O’Donnell) remains active. Other spinoff offices are mentioned as well, but Hetty’s name is conspicuously missing. Even a simple inclusion on Kasie’s board would have reassured fans that Hetty is still part of the NCIS universe.
What We Know About Hetty
Hetty hasn’t been seen in person since the Season 13 premiere of NCIS: LA, though the show makes it clear she’s alive and operational. In Season 14, she sent Callen a letter congratulating him on marrying Anna and dispatched him and Sam Hanna (LL Cool J) on a mission to Morocco, confirming she’s still actively involved behind the scenes.
Unlike other characters whose exits were never revisited, Hetty’s story hints at ongoing activity overseas. Whether she remains abroad or eventually returns to Los Angeles, the door is open for her to appear on-screen one final time.
Can the Mystery Still Be Solved?
With NCIS Season 23 confirmed, there’s at least one more opportunity for showrunners to provide closure for Hetty. Her return could take the form of a mission abroad or a personal visit that reunites her with other spinoff characters. After years of letters, voice messages, and indirect references, fans are eager to see Linda Hunt’s iconic character in the flesh one last time and give Hetty the onscreen send-off she deserves.
