NCIS: LA Fans Upset as Key Characters ‘Missing’ from Next Episode as Finale Edges Closer
Introduction: A Controversial Lead-Up to the Finale
With the NCIS: Los Angeles series finale quickly approaching, fans are eagerly anticipating a dramatic and satisfying conclusion. However, the most recent episode preview has left many frustrated and disappointed—several key characters appear to be missing from a pivotal installment.
Given that the show has been building up to its final moments, viewers expected to see the entire main cast involved in the emotional farewell. Instead, the absence of certain fan-favorite characters has sparked outrage and speculation about why they’re missing and what it means for the finale.
Let’s break down who’s absent, why fans are upset, and what this could mean for the show’s final episodes.
Which Key Characters Are Missing?
While CBS has remained tight-lipped about the exact details of upcoming episodes, recent promotional materials and official cast lists indicate that some of the show’s most beloved characters are not present in a crucial episode leading up to the finale.
1. Hetty Lange (Linda Hunt)
- Special Operations Manager Hetty Lange has been missing from most of Season 14, with sporadic appearances and references throughout.
- Fans hoped she would return in full force before the finale, but the upcoming episode does not mention her at all.
- Given her role as a mentor to the entire team, her absence is especially frustrating for longtime viewers.
2. Nell Jones (Renée Felice Smith)
- Former Intelligence Analyst Nell Jones left the show in Season 12, but fans have speculated that she could return.
- As of now, there’s no sign of Nell’s comeback in the final stretch of episodes.
3. Eric Beale (Barrett Foa)
- Tech genius Eric Beale was a staple of NCIS: LA for over a decade before exiting.
- Fans were hopeful for a last-minute surprise cameo, but there’s been no confirmation of his involvement.
4. Owen Granger (Miguel Ferrer – In Memoriam)
- Owen Granger was one of the show’s most beloved characters, and while his storyline ended due to Miguel Ferrer’s passing, many fans expected at least a tribute or flashback.
- As of now, there is no indication of an upcoming homage to Granger.
5. Dominic Vail (Adam Jamal Craig)
- Dominic Vail was part of NCIS: LA in its early seasons, and while he was presumed dead, fans have long speculated that he could return in some capacity.
- However, there is no sign of Dominic in the final episodes.
Why Are Fans Upset?
Many NCIS: LA fans are deeply frustrated by the decision to leave out important characters, especially as the series finale is right around the corner. Here’s why their absence is such a big deal.
1. No Proper Closure for Key Characters
- One of the biggest criticisms from fans is that several long-time characters are not getting a proper send-off.
- Many hoped to see Hetty, Nell, and Eric return in some way to wrap up their storylines.
- Without them, it feels like NCIS: LA is rushing to the finish line without honoring its full legacy.
2. A Disjointed Finale Build-Up
- Leading up to a series finale, most shows make sure that every key character plays a role.
- By leaving out certain characters, the upcoming episodes feel incomplete and underwhelming.
- Fans expected a reunion-style farewell, but that doesn’t seem to be happening.
3. Disappointment for Longtime Viewers
- Many fans have invested years into these characters, and their sudden absence is a letdown.
- Some are calling this decision “a slap in the face” to loyal viewers who wanted to see their favorite cast members one last time.
Could These Characters Still Return?
While the next episode may not include these missing characters, there’s still a small chance they could return in the series finale. Here’s what we know:
1. Linda Hunt (Hetty Lange) – A Last-Minute Surprise?
- Hetty’s status has been left open-ended, meaning the writers could still bring her back.
- Given how important she is to the show, there’s a strong chance she will appear in the final episode.
2. Nell and Eric – A Possible Cameo?
- Both Renée Felice Smith and Barrett Foa have remained quiet about a possible return.
- However, NCIS spin-offs have surprised fans before with last-minute cameos, so it’s not impossible.
3. Tribute to Owen Granger?
- Even if Owen Granger can’t physically return, the writers could include a tribute or flashback scene.
- Fans are hoping for at least a mention of the late character’s impact.
4. Could CBS Be Hiding a Big Secret?
- Some fans believe that CBS is keeping things under wraps to surprise viewers in the finale.
- If that’s the case, we might still see some of these missing characters make an unexpected return.
What This Means for the NCIS Universe
Even though NCIS: Los Angeles is ending, the NCIS franchise is far from over.
1. Spin-Off Possibilities
- With NCIS: Sydney coming soon and NCIS: Hawai’i continuing strong, it’s possible that some of these missing characters could reappear in other shows.
- CBS may use NCIS: Hawai’i or NCIS (main series) as a way to bring back beloved characters.
2. Future Cameos in Other NCIS Shows
- Hetty, Sam, and Callen could still appear in guest roles across the NCIS franchise.
- If CBS wants to keep these characters alive, they might integrate them into existing spin-offs.
3. Could There Be a Reunion Special?
- Many fans are demanding a reunion or spin-off featuring the original cast.
- If enough people push for it, CBS might consider a TV special or one-off episode in the future.
Final Thoughts: A Controversial Way to End a Legendary Show
As NCIS: Los Angeles prepares to air its final episodes, the absence of key characters has left fans frustrated and heartbroken. While some hope for last-minute surprises, others feel that the show missed an opportunity to properly say goodbye to all its characters.
With the finale just around the corner, the NCIS: LA team still has one last chance to deliver a satisfying ending. Will they pull off a perfect send-off, or will fans be left wanting more?
💬 What do you think? Are you upset about the missing characters? Do you think they’ll make a last-minute return? Let us know in the comments!
