A Void in the City of Angels: Characters We Still Hold Dear
NCIS: Los Angeles may have concluded its impressive fourteen-season run, but the absence of its vibrant and well-developed characters still lingers for many devoted fans. The series finale offered a sense of closure for the core team, yet the rich history of the show introduced a plethora of memorable personalities who left their mark on the Office of Special Projects. As the final echoes of the boatshed fade, here are nine characters we’d be thrilled to see return in some capacity, even for a brief appearance, to truly bid farewell to the world of NCIS: Los Angeles.
1. Henrietta “Hetty” Lange (Linda Hunt): The Enigmatic Mastermind
Topping almost every fan’s wishlist is the return of the legendary Operations Manager, Hetty Lange. Linda Hunt’s portrayal of the shrewd, resourceful, and deeply caring Hetty was a cornerstone of the show. Her mysterious past and uncanny ability to pull strings made her a captivating figure. While her absence in the later seasons was due to health reasons, the occasional voiceovers and the final mission to rescue her left her storyline open. A proper on-screen farewell, even a brief one, would be a deeply satisfying moment for viewers.
2. Nell Jones (Renée Felice Smith): The Brilliant Analyst
Nell’s journey from the quirky and insightful intelligence analyst to Hetty’s protégé and eventual interim Operations Manager was a fan-favorite arc. Her sharp wit, unwavering loyalty, and endearing relationship with Eric Beale made her an integral part of the team’s dynamic. Her appearance in the series finale, orchestrating Hetty’s rescue, hinted at her continued involvement in the NCIS world. Seeing Nell back in the boatshed, even for a visit, would bring a welcome dose of her intelligence and charm.
3. Nate Getz (Peter Cambor): The Team’s Confidante
As the team’s operational psychologist, Nate provided valuable insights into the agents’ minds and helped them navigate the emotional toll of their high-stakes jobs. His calm demeanor and thoughtful advice made him a trusted confidante. While he reappeared in the finale to aid in Hetty’s rescue, a more substantial return to interact with the core team in their familiar environment would be a treat for long-time viewers.
4. Owen Granger (Miguel Ferrer): The Gruff but Caring Assistant Director
Granger’s initial antagonistic presence eventually softened into a츤츤 (tsundere) dynamic with the team. His sharp wit, no-nonsense attitude, and underlying care for the agents, particularly Kensi, made him a compelling character. His poignant exit due to illness left a void. While a physical return is sadly impossible due to Miguel Ferrer’s passing, perhaps a heartfelt mention or a tribute in a future storyline could honor his memory.
5. Marty Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen): The Beloved Undercover Expert
Deeks’ journey from LAPD Liaison to NCIS Special Agent, his humor, his unwavering loyalty, and his deeply cherished relationship with Kensi made him a true fan favorite. While his story reached a beautiful conclusion with their impending parenthood, the dynamic he brought to the team, his banter with Sam, and his unique perspective are still missed. Even a brief cameo in a future NCIS crossover event would be a welcome sight for “Densi” fans.
6. Eric Beale (Barrett Foa): The Tech Whiz with a Heart of Gold
Eric’s quirky genius and his often humorous interactions with Nell provided much-needed levity to the intense nature of their work. His eventual departure to start his own tech company in Tokyo felt like a natural progression, but his unique skills and endearing personality are still fondly remembered. A return visit, perhaps involving a tech-related case, would be a fun way to reconnect with this beloved character.
7. Leon Vance (Rocky Carroll): The Steadfast NCIS Director
While Director Vance is a recurring character across the NCIS franchise, his presence in Los Angeles episodes always added a layer of authority and connection to the wider NCIS world. His interactions with Hetty and his occasional guidance to the LA team were always significant. A final appearance to check in on his West Coast colleagues would provide a sense of overarching continuity.
8. Shay Mosley (Nia Long): The Driven and Determined Assistant Director
Mosley’s tenure was shorter but impactful. Her fierce determination to rescue her son and her complex relationship with the team left a lasting impression. While her methods were sometimes unconventional, her dedication was undeniable. A brief reappearance to tie up loose ends or perhaps even seek the team’s help on a future case could offer closure to her storyline.
9. Jack Simon (Esai Morales): The Experienced and Principled Director
As the more recent Director who stepped in after Hetty’s initial “departure,” Simon brought a steady and experienced hand to the team. His respect for their unconventional methods and his own strong moral code made him a valuable leader during a transitional period. A final check-in with the team, perhaps offering guidance or support from afar, would be a fitting way to acknowledge his contribution.
A Final Hope for Familiar Faces: Saying Goodbye the Right Way
While the series finale provided a hopeful outlook for the core team of NCIS: Los Angeles, the show’s rich history is filled with compelling characters who contributed significantly to its success. Seeing even a few of these familiar faces return before the final curtain truly falls would offer a deeper sense of closure and a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated fanbase who invested in their journeys. Whether through a brief cameo, a special guest appearance, or even a mention that hints at their continued lives within the NCIS universe, these returns would be a welcome treat and a fitting way to honor the legacy of NCIS: Los Angeles.
