Beyond the Script: ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ Eric Christian Olsen and Daniela Ruah Get Real About Their On-Screen Romance
For fourteen seasons, the captivating and often humorous romantic relationship between Special Agents Kensi Blye and Marty Deeks on NCIS: Los Angeles was a cornerstone of the show’s enduring appeal. The journey from their initial playful antagonism to a deeply committed marriage resonated with millions of viewers, making Kensi and Deeks, affectionately nicknamed “Densi,” one of television’s most beloved couples. But what did the actors who brought this iconic duo to life, Eric Christian Olsen and Daniela Ruah, really feel about portraying such an enduring on-screen romance? Over the years, both actors have offered insightful and often candid glimpses into their experiences, revealing a dynamic that mirrored the evolution of their characters – a blend of playful banter, deep respect, and genuine affection.
The Initial Spark: From Professional Partners to Something More
When Marty Deeks was first introduced in the second season of NCIS: Los Angeles, his dynamic with Kensi was characterized by a mixture of professional friction and undeniable chemistry. Eric Christian Olsen often spoke about the initial playful annoyance between their characters, a classic trope that paved the way for a deeper connection. He highlighted the writers’ clever approach to building their relationship slowly and organically, allowing the audience to witness the gradual shift from colleagues to friends and eventually to lovers.
Daniela Ruah echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of the slow burn in making their romance believable and engaging. She appreciated the time the writers took to explore their individual personalities and the ways in which they complemented each other, both professionally and personally. This gradual development allowed the actors to build a natural rapport on screen, which undoubtedly contributed to the authenticity of their burgeoning feelings.
Navigating the Evolution: The Highs and Lows of “Densi”
As Kensi and Deeks’ relationship deepened, Olsen and Ruah navigated a range of emotional landscapes, from the thrill of their first kiss to the challenges of undercover operations that tested their trust and the joy of their eventual marriage. Both actors have spoken about the rewarding experience of portraying these pivotal moments in their characters’ lives.
Ruah often highlighted the vulnerability and emotional honesty that underpinned Kensi and Deeks’ connection, even amidst the high-stakes action of their missions. She appreciated the writers’ willingness to explore the complexities of maintaining a relationship within such a demanding profession, showcasing both the strengths and the inherent difficulties.
Olsen frequently emphasized the humor that was woven into their romance, providing much-needed levity amidst the often-dark subject matter of the show. He enjoyed the witty banter and the playful dynamic between Kensi and Deeks, which added a layer of charm and relatability to their relationship. This comedic element also allowed the actors to showcase their natural chemistry and comedic timing.
The Real-Life Chemistry: A Foundation of Respect and Trust
While Kensi and Deeks’ on-screen romance was captivating, the real-life dynamic between Eric Christian Olsen and Daniela Ruah was equally crucial to its success. Both actors have consistently spoken about their deep respect and admiration for each other as performers and as individuals. This strong professional foundation allowed them to explore the intimate and emotional aspects of their characters’ relationship with trust and ease.
Olsen often praised Ruah’s talent and dedication, highlighting her ability to bring both strength and vulnerability to the character of Kensi. Ruah, in turn, frequently spoke about Olsen’s comedic brilliance and his ability to infuse Deeks with both humor and surprising emotional depth. Their mutual respect created a supportive and collaborative environment on set, which undoubtedly translated into the believable and engaging portrayal of their on-screen romance.
The Family Connection: Adding Another Layer
Interestingly, Eric Christian Olsen and Daniela Ruah share a unique off-screen connection: Olsen’s older brother, David Paul Olsen, is Daniela Ruah’s husband. This familial link added another layer to their working relationship, fostering an even deeper sense of trust and comfort. Both actors have spoken about how this unusual dynamic enriched their on-screen portrayal, allowing for a level of intimacy and understanding that might not have been possible otherwise. The shared family connection undoubtedly contributed to the natural and believable chemistry between Kensi and Deeks.
The Enduring Legacy: Reflecting on “Densi’s” Impact
As NCIS: Los Angeles concluded its impressive run, both Eric Christian Olsen and Daniela Ruah reflected on the enduring legacy of Kensi and Deeks’ romance and its impact on the show’s fans. They expressed immense gratitude for the viewers who embraced “Densi” and invested in their journey.
Ruah often spoke about the inspiring messages she received from fans who connected with the honesty and resilience of Kensi and Deeks’ relationship. She appreciated the opportunity to portray a strong and capable woman in a loving and supportive partnership.
Olsen acknowledged the significant role that the “Densi” romance played in the show’s popularity, recognizing the fans’ deep investment in their happiness. He expressed pride in the fact that their relationship offered a blend of humor, action, and genuine emotional connection, making them a relatable and aspirational couple for many viewers.
Conclusion: A Believable Love Story Brought to Life with Respect and Chemistry
The on-screen romance between Kensi Blye and Marty Deeks in NCIS: Los Angeles was a captivating journey that spanned fourteen seasons. The success of this beloved relationship was not only due to the writers’ compelling storylines but also to the genuine chemistry, deep respect, and professional dedication of the actors who brought them to life, Eric Christian Olsen and Daniela Ruah. Their willingness to embrace the nuances of their characters’ evolving feelings, coupled with their strong off-screen rapport and unique family connection, allowed them to create a believable and enduring love story that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Beyond the action and the investigations, the heart of NCIS: Los Angeles often lay in the enduring bond between Kensi and Deeks, a testament to the talent and commitment of the actors who so brilliantly portrayed them.
