When NCIS: Los Angeles aired its final episode on May 21, 2023, it closed the curtain on one of TV’s longest-running crime dramas—and marked the end of a remarkable era for actor Eric Christian Olsen. Best known for his portrayal of the witty, loyal, and often unpredictable Marty Deeks, Olsen became a staple in millions of homes for 14 seasons. But his legacy extends far beyond crime scenes, stakeouts, and clever one-liners.
In a career that spans over two decades, Eric Christian Olsen has transformed—from a charismatic comic-relief actor with surfer vibes into a respected writer, producer, devoted family man, and now, executive television power player. His is not just a story of Hollywood success, but one of intentional reinvention, heartfelt relationships, and a relentless drive to grow.
A Legacy of Excellence: Raised by Trailblazers
It’s no surprise that Olsen was destined for greatness. Born into a family of high achievers, the values of discipline and perseverance were instilled early. His father, Dr. Paul Olsen, was a revered English professor and nationally recognized cross-country coach, while his mother, Jeanne Olsen, spent over two decades as a hospital chaplain. Their combined influence grounded Eric in compassion, integrity, and intellect—qualities that would serve him on-screen and off.
And the drive for excellence ran deep. His brother, David Paul Olsen, served as a Navy SEAL before becoming one of Hollywood’s top stunt professionals. It’s a family built on strength, heart, and quiet ambition.
Early Career: Charm, Comedy, and an Unexpected Breakthrough
Long before fans knew him as Deeks, Olsen was already on the rise. He got his start in the ’90s with guest roles on shows like ER, but it was his scene-stealing performance in Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd (2003) that first put him on the map. Playing a younger version of Jim Carrey’s Lloyd Christmas, Olsen proved he had the comedic timing and offbeat charisma to lead a film.
Yet, while comedy paid the bills, Olsen knew he wanted more.
From TV hits like Get Real, The Loop, and Brothers & Sisters, he worked steadily across genres—building a résumé of versatility that caught the attention of CBS in 2010.
Deeks Wasn’t Supposed to Be Forever—Until Fans Changed Everything
Olsen joined NCIS: LA as a guest star in Season 1. His character, LAPD liaison Marty Deeks, was only meant to appear once. But something unexpected happened: chemistry.
Audiences were drawn to the disheveled, quick-tongued cop whose moral compass and vulnerability cut through the team’s often stoic tone. His banter with Daniela Ruah’s Kensi Blye lit up the screen, and showrunners took notice. By Season 2, Olsen was a full-time cast member.
Over the next 13 years, Deeks would evolve from a quirky outsider to a core part of the NCIS family. Fans loved his emotional depth, fierce loyalty, and the slow-burn romance with Kensi that became one of the show’s most compelling arcs.
Love on Set and Behind the Scenes
While working on The Loop, Olsen met actress Sarah Wright. Their first meeting was less than ideal—Olsen misjudged her abilities, assuming she was cast for her looks. “I was a jerk,” he admitted years later in an interview. But after a heartfelt apology and a table-read revelation, the two quickly became inseparable.
In 2012, they married in a scenic outdoor ceremony in Wyoming, surrounded by nature and simplicity—Toms shoes and sunglasses included. Olsen’s father officiated, and the couple’s love story has since blossomed into a family of five. Together, they’ve welcomed three children—Wyatt, Esme, and Winter—and built a home focused on laughter, creativity, and adventure.
Family Ties: Life Imitates Art
Behind the camera, Olsen had a hand in writing key episodes of NCIS: LA—including the emotional 250th installment, Mother, and Live Free or Die Standing, which was directed by none other than his real-life sister-in-law Daniela Ruah.
The family connections don’t end there. Olsen’s brother, David, became his stunt double on the show—performing in over 70 episodes. But perhaps the most poetic twist? Eric introduced David to Daniela, playing matchmaker to one of the franchise’s most beloved on- and off-screen couples. Today, they’re married with children—making holidays at the Olsen household part family reunion, part crime drama mini-convention.
The Pandemic Glow-Up
When the world shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic, Olsen didn’t use the time to rest. Instead, he launched a serious fitness transformation that turned heads on social media. With gyms closed, he created his own routines at home, often using his kids as makeshift weights and workout buddies.
One viral photo posted by his wife showed Olsen shirtless, carrying one of their kids on his back, muscles flexed—and Instagram took notice. She captioned it: “You know what’s really great? When your husband gets into the best shape of his life while you’re 8 months pregnant.”
Beyond Acting: The Producer Era Begins
Though NCIS: LA ended in 2023, Olsen’s career didn’t slow down—it evolved. That same year, CBS greenlit a reboot of the classic series Matlock, with Kathy Bates leading the cast. Olsen, stepping behind the camera, signed on as an executive producer.
The show follows a sharp, unorthodox attorney as she takes on corruption and high-profile cases. It marks a bold new phase for Olsen—one where his storytelling instincts and industry experience are being put to use in shaping TV from the top down.
A Career Defined by Depth and Drive
Eric Christian Olsen’s transformation isn’t just physical—it’s creative, personal, and intentional. From the moment he stepped onto a set as a young actor with a dream, to now overseeing projects as a seasoned producer, his journey reflects more than talent—it shows vision.
As he continues to forge new paths in Hollywood, fans of Deeks may always remember the jokes, the chases, the love story with Kensi—but Olsen is proving there’s far more ahead. The surfer boy grew up, and in doing so, became one of television’s most quietly powerful figures.
And the best part? He’s just getting started.
