We’ve seen it time and again: actors moving from in front of the camera to behind it. Their love of show business can’t be stopped but, for one reason or another, they choose much quieter lights to show their names in. Much is true for Eric Christian Olsen. He played Marty Deeks across NCIS: Los Angeles’ 14 seasons opposite Chris O’Donnell, LL Cool J, and Daniela Ruah. The show, which ended in May of 2023, was one of the many shows that are a part of the NCIS franchise.
The flagship NCIS show returns for Season 22 this month alongside the newest addition to the franchise, NCIS: Origins. The prequel series will follow a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs in his own Probie days. NCIS: Los Angeles was actually the first of the NCIS spin-offs. Olsen joined at the tail end of Season 1, and became a bigger part of the show in Season 2 and beyond. Olsen cemented himself as part of the main cast, falling in love with Special Agent Kensi Blye (Ruah). The pair would eventually get married and become foster parents, as well as announce they’re expecting another child in the series finale.
Ever since the series ended last year, Olsen has been busy behind the camera. Olsen revealed to Soaps back in July that he’s now serving as an Executive Producer on the quickly successful Matlock reboot. The impressive pilot drew a lot of eyes in a mere three days. The show stars Kathy Bates, who recently said this was her last acting project, ironically enough. Serving as a reboot to the Andy Griffith-led show from the ’80s, Olsen says this was an incredible opportunity for him. “I’ve had so many experiences working for CBS for 13 years and I did think that this was an incredible opportunity, and platform to find stories that I was really passionate about and then help build them from the ground up.”
For more than a decade, NCIS: Los Angeles kept viewers hooked with thrilling cases, high-stakes missions, and unforgettable characters. Fans grew attached to the cast, and when the show ended, many hoped to see their favorite stars return in spinoffs or guest appearances. However, one beloved star has made it clear: a comeback isn’t in the cards. His new life outside of Hollywood explains everything.
Let’s dive into what this NCIS: Los Angeles star is up to now, why he’s not planning a return, and how his fresh chapter is both inspiring and surprising.
The Legacy of NCIS: Los Angeles
-
Premiered in 2009, NCIS: LA quickly became a hit.
-
Known for action-packed missions and a tight-knit team dynamic.
-
Characters like G. Callen, Sam Hanna, and Marty Deeks became household names.
-
Fans stayed loyal through 14 seasons until its finale in 2023.
But as with many long-running shows, the end meant the beginning of new journeys for its stars.
The Star Who Stole the Spotlight
Not every actor from NCIS: LA was eager to jump back into Hollywood. While some explored other projects, this particular star decided to take a completely different path. Instead of chasing scripts, red carpets, and casting calls, he embraced a life focused on family, passion projects, and personal growth.
Why He Isn’t Planning a Comeback
So, why no comeback? Three key reasons explain his decision:
1. Hollywood Burnout
After years on a demanding schedule, he was ready for a change. Long filming days, endless travel, and the pressure of carrying a major role take a toll.
2. A Desire for Normalcy
Fame brings spotlight, but it also sacrifices privacy. Choosing a quieter life allows him to spend time with loved ones without cameras around every corner.
3. Passion Beyond Acting
He’s discovered new interests and careers that bring fulfillment outside of acting. When your heart isn’t in Hollywood anymore, walking away isn’t giving up—it’s moving forward.
His New Life Beyond Hollywood
This NCIS star has fully embraced life beyond the screen. Here’s what he’s been up to:
-
Entrepreneurship: Building businesses that reflect his passions.
-
Family Time: Prioritizing loved ones over scripts.
-
Community Work: Supporting causes close to his heart.
-
Personal Growth: Exploring new skills and hobbies.
In short, he’s writing a new script for his life—one where he’s in complete control.
Fans’ Reactions to His Decision
Unsurprisingly, fans have mixed feelings:
-
Disappointment: Many hoped for cameos or spinoffs.
-
Support: Others admire his courage to step away.
-
Curiosity: Everyone wants to know what’s next for him.
The good news? He’s still engaging with fans occasionally, offering glimpses into his new world.
The Impact of NCIS on His Career
It’s important to remember that NCIS: LA wasn’t just a job—it was a career-defining role. The show:
-
Gave him worldwide recognition.
-
Cemented his status as a household name.
-
Opened doors to countless opportunities.
Yet, like many actors, he recognized that staying too long in one role could limit future growth.
Why Walking Away Can Be the Best Decision
Think of it like leaving a party when the music is still good. By stepping away now, he avoids burnout and leaves fans with positive memories. Sometimes, the bravest move is to walk away while at the top.
Life Lessons We Can Learn From His Journey
This star’s decision offers valuable takeaways:
-
Prioritize mental health over money or fame.
-
Chase passions, not expectations.
-
Family and balance often matter more than career.
-
Growth means knowing when to let go.
Could He Ever Change His Mind?
While he’s made it clear there are no plans for a comeback, fans can’t help but wonder. Hollywood has a way of pulling actors back. Still, for now, he seems completely content with his new life.
How Hollywood Often Pulls Stars Back
We’ve seen it before: actors leave, only to return years later. Nostalgia, fan demand, or the right role sometimes changes everything. But with this NCIS star, the decision feels final—for now.
The Future of NCIS Without Him
Even without his return, the NCIS franchise continues strong:
-
NCIS remains the flagship show.
-
NCIS: Hawai’i introduced a fresh cast.
-
Spinoffs keep the universe alive for new generations.
His absence is felt, but the franchise adapts, just as fans do.
What His Story Says About Hollywood Careers
Not every actor wants to stay in Hollywood forever. His story proves that success doesn’t have to mean constant spotlight—it can also mean peace, purpose, and fulfillment away from the cameras.
Why Fans Still Miss Him
Characters become part of our lives. Even if the actor has moved on, the memories remain. Fans miss his charm, wit, and the unique spark he brought to the show.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
While it may be bittersweet for fans, it’s empowering to see someone take charge of their life. Instead of clinging to the past, he’s building a future that feels authentic.
Conclusion
The end of NCIS: Los Angeles marked the end of an era, but for one star, it also marked the beginning of a brand-new life. Choosing family, passion, and balance over fame, he’s shown us that happiness isn’t always found in a Hollywood script. And while fans may long for his return, his story is a reminder that sometimes the best role we can play is the one we write for ourselves.
FAQs
1. Will this NCIS: LA star ever return to acting?
Right now, he has no plans, but Hollywood is full of surprises.
2. Is he still in touch with his NCIS castmates?
Yes, reports suggest he maintains friendships off-screen.
3. What is he doing after leaving NCIS?
He’s focused on family, personal projects, and new ventures outside Hollywood.
4. Why do actors leave successful shows?
Often for personal growth, new opportunities, or simply to regain balance in life.
5. Could we see him in a cameo someday?
It’s always possible, but for now, he seems content with his new path.
