The sun may have set on the beloved NCIS: Los Angeles after a remarkable fourteen-season run, but the possibility of seeing a familiar face back in the NCIS universe is once again sparking excitement among fans. Daniela Ruah, the talented actress who portrayed the fierce and compassionate Special Agent Kensi Blye from the show’s inception, has recently offered optimistic words regarding a potential return to the franchise, particularly as speculation about a de facto Season 15 through other NCIS series gains traction. Could Kensi Blye be gracing our screens once more? Here’s what we know.
The Lingering Absence: Fans Yearn for Familiar Faces Post-NCIS: LA
The cancellation of NCIS: Los Angeles in May 2023 left a void for many viewers who had grown deeply attached to the characters and their intricate dynamics. While the NCIS universe continues with the flagship series and NCIS: Hawai’i (until its recent cancellation), the unique blend of undercover work and family-like camaraderie that defined the LA-based team is sorely missed. This longing for familiar faces has fueled constant speculation about potential crossovers or returns.
LL Cool J’s Return: A Beacon of Hope for Alums
The recent reappearance of LL Cool J as Sam Hanna in NCIS Season 22 has ignited renewed hope that other NCIS: Los Angeles alumni might follow suit. Sam’s return, now as a congressional liaison, not only provided a welcome familiar face but also opened up narrative possibilities for further interactions between the different NCIS teams.
The “Densi” Factor: A Beloved Partnership
The enduring love story and professional partnership of Kensi Blye and Marty Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen) were central to NCIS: Los Angeles‘s appeal. Fans remain invested in their lives, especially after the series finale revealed Kensi was pregnant. Any potential return of Kensi would naturally raise questions about whether Deeks might also make an appearance. However, Eric Christian Olsen has indicated a lesser inclination to revisit the role compared to Ruah.
Daniela Ruah’s Optimistic Stance: “If I Get Asked…”
In various interviews following the conclusion of NCIS: Los Angeles, Daniela Ruah has consistently expressed an openness to reprising her role as Kensi Blye under the right circumstances. Her recent comments have further fueled this hopeful sentiment.
“I Will Certainly Figure It Out”: A Willingness to Make it Work
Speaking to TVLine in 2023, Ruah stated, “If I get asked, I will certainly figure it out at the time.” This pragmatic yet positive response indicates her willingness to navigate the logistics and scheduling that a return would entail, provided the storyline and timing align.
“If It Makes Sense, Why Not, Right?”: Prioritizing Narrative Integrity
Ruah has also emphasized the importance of any return making narrative sense. She isn’t simply interested in a cameo for the sake of it but would want Kensi’s appearance to contribute meaningfully to the story of whichever NCIS series she might guest star in. This thoughtful approach resonates with fans who value the integrity of the characters.
A Natural Fit in the NCISverse: Kensi’s Skillset and Connections
Kensi’s background as a highly skilled NCIS Special Agent with expertise in undercover operations and her established connections within the broader NCIS universe make her a believable and valuable asset to any of the remaining teams. Her potential interactions with the Washington D.C. team or even a return to Hawai’i (before its cancellation) would offer compelling narrative possibilities.
The Question of Season 15 (of the NCIS Universe): A New Landscape
While NCIS: Los Angeles concluded with its 14th season, the NCIS universe continues. The flagship NCIS is currently in its 22nd season, and NCIS: Hawai’i aired for three seasons before its recent cancellation after its third season. The continued existence of the NCIS franchise creates a landscape where crossovers and guest appearances from former NCIS: Los Angeles characters feel increasingly plausible.
Sam’s Return as a Template: Paving the Way for Others
LL Cool J’s seamless integration into NCIS Season 22 demonstrates how former NCIS: Los Angeles characters can be woven into existing storylines. His current role as a congressional liaison provides a believable reason for him to interact with the Washington D.C. team, and a similar approach could be used for Kensi, perhaps involving a case that requires her specific expertise.
Potential Storylines for Kensi’s Return: Numerous Possibilities
The possibilities for Kensi’s return are varied and exciting:
- A Case Collaboration: Kensi could be brought in to assist the NCIS team on a complex case that requires her unique skills in undercover work or her knowledge of specific criminal elements from her time in Los Angeles.
- Visiting an Old Friend: Given Sam’s current presence in D.C., a visit from Kensi to catch up with her former partner could naturally lead to her involvement in a local investigation.
- A “Densi” Crossover: While Eric Christian Olsen has expressed less interest, the possibility of a storyline that brings both Kensi and Deeks back for a special case, perhaps even involving their child, would be a major draw for fans.
- Leveraging Kensi’s Law Enforcement Background: With her deep understanding of law enforcement procedures, Kensi could offer a valuable perspective on certain cases.
Conclusion: The Flame of Hope Remains Lit for Kensi’s Return
Daniela Ruah’s optimistic stance on potentially returning to the NCIS universe offers a significant glimmer of hope for fans who miss Kensi Blye. With the precedent set by LL Cool J’s reappearance and the ongoing nature of the NCIS franchise, the possibility of seeing Kensi back in action, perhaps even in a way that feels like a continuation of the NCIS: Los Angeles spirit within the broader universe, remains a tantalizing prospect. While nothing is confirmed, Ruah’s willingness to “figure it out” if asked keeps the door wide open for a future reunion with a beloved character. As the NCIS saga continues, the echoes of the Pacific and the skills of Agent Blye may very well grace our screens once more.
