For the dedicated “Densi” shippers and fans who adored the witty banter and surprising depth of LAPD Liaison Officer-turned-NCIS Special Agent Marty Deeks, portrayed brilliantly by Eric Christian Olsen, the cancellation of NCIS: Los Angeles in 2023 left a significant void. While the series finale offered a heartwarming glimpse into Deeks and Kensi’s (Daniela Ruah) future as expectant parents, the hope for a potential return of these beloved characters in some form within the NCIS universe has lingered. However, recent updates from Eric Christian Olsen himself suggest that a comeback for Marty Deeks isn’t exactly riding the next wave.
The End of the Line for OSP: Saying Farewell to a West Coast Favorite
NCIS: Los Angeles provided a unique flavor to the NCIS franchise, blending high-octane action with the laid-back vibes of Southern California. At its heart was the evolving relationship between Deeks and Kensi, a slow-burn romance that captivated audiences for fourteen seasons. Deeks’ journey from a somewhat unorthodox detective to a dedicated NCIS agent, all while navigating his complex personal life alongside Kensi, made him a fan favorite. The series finale, while offering a sense of closure with their impending parenthood, also left a bittersweet feeling, with many hoping for future appearances in crossovers or even a dedicated spin-off.
The Lingering Question: Will Deeks Ever Return to the NCIS Universe?
Following the cancellation, the possibility of seeing familiar faces from NCIS: Los Angeles pop up in the flagship NCIS series or the now-concluded NCIS: Hawai’i remained a topic of hopeful speculation among fans. The brief return of LL Cool J as Sam Hanna in NCIS: Hawai’i fueled this optimism, suggesting that the door wasn’t entirely closed for other NCIS: LA alumni. However, Eric Christian Olsen’s recent comments have seemingly dampened those hopes, at least for the foreseeable future.
“Not So Much”: Olsen’s Candid Take on Reprising the Role
In a recent interview, when directly asked about the possibility of reprising his role as Marty Deeks, Olsen offered a rather definitive and perhaps disappointing answer: “not so much.” While acknowledging his deep affection for his former co-stars, including Daniela Ruah (his real-life sister-in-law), LL Cool J, and Renée Felice Smith (Nell Jones), Olsen indicated that he isn’t actively yearning to step back into Deeks’ shoes at this time.
A Focus on New Horizons: Olsen’s Post-NCIS LA Endeavors
Since the conclusion of NCIS: Los Angeles, Eric Christian Olsen has been actively involved in new projects, primarily behind the camera. He currently serves as an executive producer on the reboot of the classic legal drama Matlock, starring Kathy Bates. Olsen has expressed enthusiasm for this new role, even hinting at the possibility of stepping in front of the camera for the series in the future, albeit as a new character. This shift in focus towards producing and exploring new acting opportunities suggests that revisiting the role of Marty Deeks isn’t his immediate priority.
The Practicalities of Franchise Crossovers: A Logistical Challenge
Olsen also alluded to the logistical challenges of incorporating former spin-off leads into the current NCIS landscape. With the existing shows already juggling numerous characters and storylines, finding meaningful ways to integrate guest appearances from beloved NCIS: Los Angeles agents while doing their characters justice could prove difficult. This pragmatic perspective further explains why a Deeks comeback might not be in the cards anytime soon.
Leaving Deeks in a Good Place: A Satisfying Farewell
Ultimately, the writers of NCIS: Los Angeles provided Deeks and Kensi with a satisfying and heartwarming conclusion to their story. Their impending parenthood offered a sense of closure and a new chapter in their lives, suggesting that their journey as NCIS agents was evolving alongside their personal one. Perhaps Olsen feels that Deeks’ story has reached a natural and fulfilling end, making a return unnecessary.
Conclusion: Time to Close the Door on Deeks’ NCIS Return (For Now)
While the news may be disheartening for fans who longed to see Marty Deeks back in action, Eric Christian Olsen’s recent update suggests that a return to the NCIS universe isn’t on the immediate horizon. His focus on new creative endeavors, coupled with the logistical challenges of franchise crossovers, indicates that Deeks’ chapter in the NCIS saga has likely come to a close. However, in the ever-evolving world of television, never say never. For now, fans can cherish the memories of Deeks’ witty charm and unwavering loyalty and support Olsen as he embarks on new and exciting projects. The surf may not be calling Deeks back to the NCIS wave pool just yet.
