After 322 episodes filled with high-stakes missions, fiery shootouts, and unforgettable character moments, NCIS: Los Angeles is officially closing its final case. The long-running CBS procedural, a fan-favorite offshoot of the original NCIS, will wrap up with its 14th season — culminating in a highly anticipated series finale airing May 14 on CBS and Paramount+.
For longtime fans, the announcement feels both bittersweet and sudden. Although whispers of budget constraints and evolving network strategies had floated around, the show’s continued strong ratings—especially after a successful three-way crossover with NCIS and NCIS: Hawai’i—had many believing it would endure at least another season.
Yet, as LL Cool J, who starred as Sam Hanna for the entire run, posted on Instagram shortly after the news broke:
“After 14 seasons, this is the perfect time to end NCIS: LA on top of our game!”
And there’s truth in that. NCIS: Los Angeles is ending not with cancellation regret, but with a legacy secured.
🔍 The End of an Era
Premiering in 2009, NCIS: LA quickly established itself as more than just a spin-off. With its sun-soaked setting, stylish action, and a charmingly complex partnership between Chris O’Donnell’s Callen and LL Cool J’s Hanna, the show became a steady ratings performer—and a cultural mainstay for over a decade.
Unlike many long-running dramas, NCIS: LA never saw its core cast splinter. Stars like O’Donnell and LL Cool J remained loyal until the very end. Daniela Ruah (Kensi Blye) and Eric Christian Olsen (Deeks) also stayed for the long haul, contributing to what executive producer R. Scott Gemmill calls “a true family.”
“Our crew has grown to be a true family, and their hard work and dedication has been fundamental to our success year after year,” Gemmill shared in an emotional farewell statement.
📺 Why Now?
Insiders point to the rising costs of producing a Los Angeles-based show with A-list leads as a major factor. In today’s industry landscape—where even successful series are being scrutinized for budget cuts—NCIS: LA simply became too expensive to continue, despite still delivering solid viewership (averaging 6.06 million live viewers).
CBS made the call early enough to allow Gemmill and his writers to craft a true ending. And that, fans agree, makes all the difference.
🎬 A Proper Send-Off
The finale promises to honor its characters and their journeys with a satisfying conclusion. While details are tightly under wraps, hints point to a farewell that focuses on legacy, loyalty, and a nod to fans who’ve followed these characters for nearly a generation.
Amy Reisenbach, President of CBS Entertainment, praised the team behind the show:
“We are so grateful for the collaboration and remarkable run of these treasured members of our CBS family, and plan to give them the big sendoff they and their fans deserve.”
🌍 What’s Next for the NCIS Universe?
While NCIS: Los Angeles says goodbye, the larger NCIS franchise is still thriving. The original NCIS marches into its 21st season, while the latest spin-offs—NCIS: Hawai’i and the upcoming NCIS: Tony & Ziva—are keeping the world of naval crime alive and global.
But for fans of Callen, Sam, Kensi, and Deeks, the end of NCIS: LA marks more than just the loss of a show — it’s the end of a family they’ve grown with for 14 years.
