After 13 seasons of adrenaline-pumping missions and high-stakes investigations, NCIS: Los Angeles has never been short on drama. But the Season 13 finale delivered something even more powerful than explosions or takedowns: genuine, heartwarming emotion.
From family dreams coming true to a surprise engagement — and even a fan-favorite character making an unexpected return — the CBS procedural wrapped its penultimate season on a deeply personal and celebratory note.
A New Chapter for Kensi and Deeks: Parenthood Begins
Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah) and Marty Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen) have long been a fan-favorite couple, and for good reason. Their evolution from professional partners to romantic soulmates has been one of the most emotionally resonant arcs in NCIS: LA history. For several seasons now, fans have watched them struggle with infertility and the emotional toll it has taken on their relationship.
In the Season 13 finale, that heartache finally gave way to joy: Kensi and Deeks became foster parents.
The child in question? Rosa Reyes, played by Natalia Del Riego — a character viewers first met earlier in the season. Rosa was introduced as a refugee who crossed the border during a case Kensi was working. Her bond with Kensi was immediate and profound, and Deeks quickly followed suit in embracing her. The chemistry between the three hinted early on at a potential future family dynamic, and now that hope has been fulfilled.
With little fanfare but a lot of heart, Rosa officially joined the Blye-Deeks household — a moment that was celebrated not just by the couple, but by the entire NCIS team.
A Beach Party… and a Familiar Face Returns
To honor Rosa’s arrival, Admiral Kilbride (Gerald McRaney) surprised everyone by organizing a beach party — something rare for the no-nonsense leader. The gathering gave the team a chance to relax, celebrate, and toast to new beginnings.
But the biggest surprise guest wasn’t even Rosa. It was the unexpected return of Arkady Kolcheck (Vyto Ruginis), Anna’s father and an occasionally helpful, often chaotic ally with ties to Russian intelligence. While Arkady’s presence is always unpredictable, his inclusion in the finale added levity and a dose of nostalgia — especially for longtime fans who have followed his love-hate dynamic with Callen and the team since Season 1.
Love Is in the Air: Callen and Anna’s Long-Awaited Engagement
The emotional highs didn’t end there. On the beach, under the setting sun and surrounded by the people they trust most, G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell) finally made his move. After teasing it for an entire season, Callen dropped to one knee and proposed to Anna Kolcheck (Bar Paly).
The moment was tender, quiet, and long overdue. Fans of the couple have waited years for a romantic payoff, and the scene didn’t disappoint. With a heartfelt “yes” from Anna, the NCIS universe gained another soon-to-be-married couple. Could Season 14 deliver an on-screen wedding? Only time will tell — but the setup is officially in place.
One Missing Piece: Hetty’s Absence Looms Large
Still, amid all the celebration and feel-good moments, there was one person notably absent: Henrietta “Hetty” Lange, played by the legendary Linda Hunt.
Hetty’s screen time in recent seasons has dwindled, with the character often off on secretive international missions. While she made a surprise return for the Season 12 finale, her continued absence in Season 13 was keenly felt, especially as the team embraced such major life events.
The good news? It won’t be for long. Showrunners have confirmed that Hetty will factor significantly into Season 14. Several upcoming episodes will reportedly explore what she’s been up to — and possibly set the stage for her final arc.
Final Thoughts: Family, Found and Formed
The NCIS: Los Angeles Season 13 finale wasn’t about a deadly case or explosive mission. Instead, it chose to focus on the characters’ personal journeys — their struggles, triumphs, and deep emotional bonds.
Whether it was Kensi and Deeks embracing parenthood, Callen stepping into a new chapter of commitment, or the entire team coming together to welcome someone new, the episode reminded fans what has always been at the heart of NCIS: LA: family.
As the series moves into its 14th — and final — season, it’s clear that the agents of the Office of Special Projects will face whatever comes next together. And for fans, that’s the most satisfying closure of all.
