The End of an Era, The Dawn of a New One: Eric Christian Olsen’s Post-NCIS: LA Journey
For fourteen seasons, Eric Christian Olsen endeared himself to audiences worldwide as the charming and often hilarious Special Agent Marty Deeks on NCIS: Los Angeles. His witty banter, unwavering loyalty, and the heartwarming evolution of his relationship with Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah) made him a cornerstone of the beloved CBS procedural. However, with the series concluding its successful run in May 2023, fans wondered what the future held for the talented actor. While many might have anticipated a potential appearance in another NCIS franchise or a starring role in a new action-packed drama, Olsen has taken a different, yet equally significant, route within the CBS family.
Instead of stepping back in front of the camera immediately, Olsen has embraced a powerful role behind the scenes, serving as an executive producer for the highly anticipated reboot of the classic legal drama, Matlock, starring the legendary Kathy Bates. This move signifies a new chapter in Olsen’s career, showcasing his versatility and business acumen beyond his well-established acting prowess. It’s a testament to his connection with CBS and his desire to contribute to compelling storytelling in a different capacity.
Trading the Tactical for the Take-Charge: Olsen’s Move to Executive Producer
While fans undoubtedly miss seeing Olsen’s familiar face and comedic timing on screen each week, his transition to executive producer on Matlock is a significant achievement. Executive producers play a crucial role in the creation and oversight of a television series, involved in everything from casting and writing to the overall creative vision and logistical execution. Olsen’s deep understanding of the television landscape, honed over years on a successful show like NCIS: LA, makes him a valuable asset in this role.
His involvement in Matlock demonstrates a keen interest in developing and shaping compelling narratives. The reboot of a beloved series like Matlock, which originally starred Andy Griffith, comes with its own set of expectations and challenges. Olsen’s presence behind the scenes suggests a commitment to honoring the spirit of the original while bringing a fresh and contemporary perspective to the legal procedural.
“Matlock”: A New CBS Hit with Olsen’s Fingerprints
The new Matlock series, which premiered in 2024 and has already garnered significant praise and a renewal for a second season, centers on Madeline “Matty” Matlock (Kathy Bates), a brilliant but unconventional lawyer who uses her seemingly unassuming demeanor and keen intellect to uncover the truth in complex cases. The show has struck a chord with audiences, blending intriguing mysteries with Bates’ captivating performance and a touch of humor.
While Olsen doesn’t appear on screen in Matlock, his influence as an executive producer is undoubtedly felt in the show’s tone, pacing, and overall quality. His experience in crafting engaging television, particularly within the CBS framework, likely contributes to the show’s success. He has spoken enthusiastically about working with Kathy Bates and the talented cast and crew, indicating a genuine passion for this new project.
Not a Spinoff, But Still CBS Family: Olsen’s Continued Network Ties
What’s particularly noteworthy about Olsen’s new gig is that it’s entirely separate from the NCIS franchise. While many actors who become synonymous with a successful series often gravitate towards spinoffs or similar roles within the same universe, Olsen has branched out into a completely different genre. This demonstrates his desire to explore new creative avenues and avoid being typecast solely as Marty Deeks.
However, his continued presence within the CBS network highlights the strong relationship he built during his time on NCIS: LA. The network clearly recognizes his talent and value, both on and off-screen, and his new role as an executive producer underscores this ongoing partnership. It suggests that while Deeks’ chapter has closed, Olsen’s journey with CBS is far from over.
The Future: Will Olsen Return to Acting?
While Olsen is currently focused on his producing duties with Matlock, the question remains: will he ever return to acting? In various interviews, Olsen has hinted that he hasn’t completely closed the door on performing again. He has mentioned that watching the talented cast of Matlock sometimes makes him miss being in front of the camera.
However, he also seems genuinely invested in his role as a producer, enjoying the creative control and the opportunity to shape a project from its inception. It’s possible that in the future, Olsen might balance his behind-the-scenes work with select acting roles, but for now, his primary focus appears to be on making Matlock a continued success.
Conclusion: Eric Christian Olsen’s Exciting New Act at CBS
The conclusion of NCIS: Los Angeles marked the end of an era for fans of Marty Deeks, but it has ushered in an exciting new chapter for Eric Christian Olsen. His move to executive produce the revived Matlock series on CBS showcases his talent and ambition beyond acting. While it’s not the NCIS spinoff some might have anticipated, it demonstrates his continued commitment to the network and his passion for creating compelling television. As Matlock enjoys critical and commercial success, Olsen’s new role proves that his contributions to CBS are far from over, solidifying his position as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. The “Deeks” chapter may be closed, but Eric Christian Olsen’s story on CBS is just beginning.
