For fourteen seasons, the high-octane action and the deeply personal connections of the NCIS: Los Angeles team captivated audiences worldwide. As the series prepared to air its final episodes in May 2023, CBS announced a special treat for its loyal fanbase: a dedicated retrospective special that would follow the series finale, offering a heartfelt look back at the show’s remarkable run. This special promised to be a fitting send-off, filled with cherished memories, behind-the-scenes moments, and exclusive interviews with the cast who brought the beloved characters to life.
A Salute to the OSP: Celebrating 14 Thrilling Seasons
Titled “A Salute to ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’,” the one-hour special was set to air immediately after the series finale on Sunday, May 21, 2023, on CBS. Hosted by Kevin Frazier of Entertainment Tonight, the retrospective aimed to celebrate the show’s incredible 14-season journey, which began on September 22, 2009, and spanned over 300 action-packed episodes.
More Than Just a Show: A Global Phenomenon
NCIS: Los Angeles quickly established itself as a successful spin-off, lauded for its stylish action sequences, its exploration of complex undercover operations, and the undeniable chemistry between its core cast, led by Chris O’Donnell as G. Callen and LL Cool J as Sam Hanna. The series garnered a dedicated global following, drawn to the intricate cases and the strong familial bonds within the Office of Special Projects.
A Gift to the Fans: Extending the Farewell
Showrunner and executive producer R. Scott Gemmill expressed his gratitude to CBS for allowing an “extra episode” to properly conclude the series. This additional time allowed the writers to craft a satisfying and hopeful ending for the characters, ensuring that the long-term journeys of Callen, Sam, Kensi (Daniela Ruah), Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen), and the rest of the team reached a meaningful conclusion. The retrospective special served as an additional gift to the fans, providing an opportunity to reminisce and celebrate the show’s legacy.
Inside the Retrospective: Memories, Interviews, and Behind-the-Scenes Secrets
“A Salute to ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’” promised to be a treasure trove for fans, offering a comprehensive look back at the show’s impressive run. Hosted directly from the NCIS: LA set, the special featured:
Exclusive Interviews with the Cast:
Viewers were treated to new interviews with the cast members, both past and present, who shared their favorite memories from their time on the show. These personal anecdotes offered insights into the camaraderie on set and the deep connections forged over the years.
A Look Back at Iconic Moments:
The special highlighted some of the most memorable and impactful moments from the past 14 seasons, revisiting thrilling action sequences, heartwarming character developments, and the signature humor that defined the series.
Behind-the-Scenes Footage:
Fans were given a special peek behind the curtain with never-before-seen footage from the set, offering a glimpse into the making of the show and the close-knit relationships between the cast and crew.
Favorite Memories and Untold Stories:
The retrospective provided a platform for the cast and creators to share their personal favorite memories, untold stories, and the moments that truly defined their experience on NCIS: Los Angeles.
Aired After a Meaningful Finale: Tying Up Loose Ends
The retrospective special followed a two-part series finale that aimed to provide closure for the main characters. The finale saw Callen and Anna finally planning their wedding, Devin Rountree’s sister interviewing for medical school, and Sam encouraging his father to participate in a drug trial. The resolution of these personal storylines, coupled with the team’s final case, paved the way for the celebratory and nostalgic tone of the retrospective special.
Leaving Fans with Hope: A Satisfying Conclusion
The showrunners aimed to leave the fans with a sense of hope for the future of their beloved characters, offering what they envisioned as their respective “happily ever afters.” The retrospective special built upon this positive ending, reinforcing the enduring bonds of the team and celebrating the lasting impact of NCIS: Los Angeles on its dedicated audience.
Where to Watch: Streaming on Paramount+
For fans who couldn’t catch the retrospective special live on CBS, it was also available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+. This ensured that viewers had ample opportunity to join in the celebration and revisit their favorite moments from the show’s remarkable 14-year run.
Conclusion: A Fond Farewell to a Beloved Team
“A Salute to ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’” served as a fitting and heartfelt farewell to a series that brought action, drama, and a strong sense of family into the homes of millions. By offering exclusive interviews, memorable moments, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, the retrospective special provided a meaningful opportunity for fans to celebrate the show’s legacy and bid a fond adieu to the characters they had come to know and love. Even as the final credits rolled, the memories and the spirit of the NCIS: Los Angeles team continued to live on through this special tribute.
