While Linda Hunt’s Hetty remained central to future plans, Season 12 also highlighted the growing importance of Admiral Kilbride in NCIS: Los Angeles.
Showrunner R. Scott Gemmill praised actor Gerald McRaney’s performance, noting his ability to balance humor and authority while fitting naturally into the team’s dynamic. As Kilbride stepped into a more visible leadership role, he helped fill the gap created by Hetty’s temporary absence.
At the same time, the departure of Eric and Nell signaled a shift in the operations center’s future. With several cast members pursuing outside projects, the series leaned into storytelling flexibility while keeping longtime favorites connected to the narrative.
Gemmill confirmed that Season 13 would continue exploring Hetty’s whereabouts and unresolved storylines tied to her secret mission—ensuring that her influence remained central to the show’s direction moving forward.