Introduction: A Look Back at the NCIS: Los Angeles Cast Through the Seasons
For over a decade, NCIS: Los Angeles has been one of the most beloved and thrilling police procedural dramas on television. As the show nears its final seasons, fans have had the opportunity to watch their favorite characters evolve both personally and professionally. From the very first season to their final appearances, the cast has undergone significant changes, showcasing how the characters have grown over the years.
In this article, we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane by comparing the NCIS: LA cast in their first and last seasons. Get ready for a glimpse into the incredible transformations of your favorite agents, as we explore how time has shaped both the actors and their characters.
The Evolution of Callen: Chris O’Donnell’s Iconic Role
Season 1: Introducing G. Callen
One of the central characters in NCIS: Los Angeles is G. Callen, portrayed by Chris O’Donnell. Callen started off the series as a seasoned NCIS agent, though with a mysterious past that was still unfolding. In Season 1, Callen was already a highly skilled and driven individual, but his backstory and family history were not yet fully explored. O’Donnell’s portrayal of Callen was tough yet compassionate, bringing depth to a character whose life was shrouded in mystery.
In his first season, Callen had a sleek, no-nonsense look. He often wore dark suits, looked serious, and had that cold, calculating demeanor that fit his undercover assignments. The first season introduced the viewers to Callen’s charismatic but somewhat guarded personality, with hints of vulnerability as he began to uncover more about his own past.
Season 14: The More Seasoned Callen
Fast forward to Season 14, and Callen has undergone a significant transformation. Chris O’Donnell’s character has evolved, becoming more emotionally open and resolute. Over the years, Callen developed close relationships with his team, including his mentor Sam Hanna and his partner Kensi Blye, showing a more human side than when we first met him.
Visually, Callen’s look in Season 14 reflects his more mature, well-rounded persona. He’s less focused on his mysterious past and more on the relationships he’s built, including his ongoing romantic involvement. Fans have watched as O’Donnell has aged gracefully, with a slight shift in his hair color and a few additional lines on his face—a sign of both time and the deeper emotional journey Callen has undertaken.
Sam Hanna: LL Cool J’s Transformation Over the Years
Season 1: The Tough and Loyal Sam Hanna
Sam Hanna, played by LL Cool J, was introduced as a former Navy SEAL turned NCIS agent, a character with a complex mix of grit and heart. In Season 1, Sam was already a formidable force with deep loyalty to his team. Sam’s calm demeanor and unparalleled physical abilities made him a fan favorite from the beginning. His personal backstory—particularly his relationship with his family—began to develop over the first few seasons, but his professional skills were front and center.
Sam’s look in the first season was simple but powerful. He often wore tactical gear and combat-ready attire, fitting his military background. His hair was kept relatively short, and his strong presence on screen immediately established him as one of the show’s most reliable characters.
Season 14: Sam’s Growth and Family Life
By the time we reach Season 14, Sam has grown even more into his role as a mentor and protector within the team. LL Cool J’s portrayal of Sam shows a character who has softened in certain areas, particularly in his relationships. Over the seasons, Sam’s emotional side has become more evident, especially regarding his daughter and his commitment to the team.
Visually, Sam has embraced a more relaxed and approachable look. His once-short hair has grown a bit longer, and his attire now often includes more casual clothing, reflecting his personal growth and balance between the action-packed world of NCIS and his quieter life outside of it.
Kensi Blye: Daniela Ruah’s Journey from Rookie to Expert Agent
Season 1: Kensi’s Rough Start
Kensi Blye, portrayed by Daniela Ruah, was introduced as a tough, no-nonsense agent with a chip on her shoulder. As a former Navy brat, Kensi had a rough start in her career and initially struggled with fitting into the team. Her journey in Season 1 was one of self-discovery, where she learned to balance her sharp instincts with the need for teamwork. In her early seasons, Kensi was known for her fearless attitude and sharp wit, but also for her emotional vulnerability.
Kensi’s look in the first season was sleek and practical, with a style that matched her confident but slightly defensive personality. Whether in tactical gear or a fitted blazer, Kensi carried herself with purpose, and her straightforward approach to her work made her stand out from the rest of the team.
Season 14: Kensi’s Emotional Depth and Growth
By Season 14, Kensi has become a seasoned agent with far more emotional depth. Her relationships—especially her partnership with Marty Deeks—have grown, and she’s now seen as one of the most trusted agents in the team. Kensi’s character has evolved from a rookie trying to prove herself to a woman who’s confident in her skills and personal choices.
Ruah’s portrayal of Kensi in the later seasons shows a woman who has come to terms with her past and embraced her future. Her style has become more polished and confident, reflecting the growth of her character. Fans of the show have seen her wear everything from tactical gear to more casual and fashionable attire, reflecting her balanced approach to life and work.
Marty Deeks: Eric Christian Olsen’s Character Arc
Season 1: Deeks as the Comic Relief
Marty Deeks, played by Eric Christian Olsen, started his career on NCIS: Los Angeles as the team’s undercover detective. In Season 1, Deeks was introduced as the comic relief—his sarcastic humor and laid-back attitude made him an instant fan favorite. Despite his humor, Deeks was shown to be a capable agent with sharp instincts, often working in tandem with Kensi to solve cases.
Deeks’ look in the first season was much more laid-back compared to his team members, and he often wore casual clothing like jeans and jackets, blending into his undercover role while maintaining a carefree demeanor.
Season 14: Deeks as a Family Man and Veteran Agent
By Season 14, Deeks has undergone a massive transformation. He’s no longer just the funny guy on the team; he’s a seasoned agent and a committed partner to Kensi. Deeks’ development has shown a more mature side, particularly in his role as a husband and potential father. His character has become more grounded, with a deeper emotional investment in the team and his family.
Olsen’s portrayal in the later seasons shows Deeks with a more mature look. His casual clothing remains, but his demeanor has shifted to reflect the weight of his experiences. Deeks’ growth throughout the series makes him one of the most well-rounded characters on NCIS: LA, and fans continue to appreciate his emotional depth alongside his humor.
The Final Season: Farewell to the Team
Saying Goodbye to Iconic Characters
As NCIS: Los Angeles prepares to wrap up, fans are getting ready to say goodbye to the characters they’ve grown to love over the years. From the early days of the team to their final moments, each character has undergone a significant transformation, not only in their appearance but also in their personal growth.
The cast’s journey from the first season to the final season is a testament to the lasting appeal of NCIS: LA and the incredible talent of the actors. As the show comes to a close, fans will have the opportunity to reflect on the incredible arcs of these beloved characters and the way they’ve evolved throughout the years.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Change and Growth
The NCIS: Los Angeles cast has undergone many changes since Season 1, and their transformations are a reflection of both their characters’ journeys and the passage of time. From Callen’s emotional evolution to Kensi and Deeks’ deepening relationship, the show’s characters have grown into more complex and layered individuals. Through every twist and turn, the cast has shown how much they’ve matured, and fans have witnessed these changes up close.
As the final season approaches, it’s clear that these characters will remain beloved by fans, and their transformations over the years will be remembered as part of the show’s legacy. The journey from the first season to the last has been one of growth, loss, love, and triumph, making NCIS: Los Angeles a show that will always hold a special place in the hearts of its viewers.
