When NCIS: Los Angeles signed off in May 2023 after an impressive 14 seasons, it closed the door on a chapter of the NCIS franchise that blended high-stakes cases with warm, often hilarious camaraderie. And among the many memorable characters, few have left as big an imprint on viewers as the wisecracking, fiercely loyal Marty Deeks.
Played by Eric Christian Olsen, Deeks brought a mix of charm, heart, and emotional depth that balanced out the intense action and procedural drama. His easy banter with Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah) was more than just romantic subtext—it was one of the emotional anchors of the series. From the moment he first appeared as a guest star in Season 1, posing as an undercover LAPD detective on a drug-smuggling case, Deeks’ chemistry with the team was undeniable. By Season 2, he had swapped his guest role for a badge as a full-time cast member, and the rest was NCIS history.
Deeks was more than just comic relief. Over the years, his arc transformed him from a lone wolf with a murky past to a devoted husband, loyal partner, and trusted federal agent. His marriage to Kensi became a long-running emotional payoff for fans, culminating in one of the show’s most heartwarming relationships. For many, Deeks was the soul of NCIS: LA—a reminder that even in a high-risk, high-pressure job, humor and humanity matter.
So when the series ended, the question almost immediately followed: could Deeks resurface in another NCIS project? The franchise has a history of weaving fan-favorite characters into other shows, with crossovers and surprise cameos fueling speculation. NCIS, NCIS: Hawai’i, or even a future spin-off all seemed like natural landing spots for a Deeks revival.
Unfortunately, Eric Christian Olsen himself isn’t feeding that fire. In recent interviews, Olsen has made it clear that while he’s immensely proud of his 14-year run and deeply grateful for the fan love, he has no immediate plans to reprise the role. For now, he’s focusing on new creative projects, producing work behind the scenes, and—by the sound of it—enjoying life outside the relentless schedule of network television.
That doesn’t mean the door is completely closed. The NCIS universe is notorious for surprise guest appearances, and fan demand can be a powerful motivator in Hollywood. But for the moment, Deeks’ surfboards are stored away, his wisecracks remain on pause, and that LAPD liaison badge is gathering dust.
Still, in the hearts of longtime viewers, Marty Deeks hasn’t left the field. Whether he returns in a one-off cameo or never at all, his legacy in NCIS: LA is cemented—as the undercover cop who became family, the husband who fought for love, and the guy who could make you laugh in the middle of a firefight.
And if the call ever comes for him to suit up again? Something tells us Deeks wouldn’t be able to resist one more wave.
