Chris O’Donnell is returning to the procedural landscape, but that doesn’t mean he wasn’t regretful about his previous ventures. In an interview with TV Line’s Matt Webb Mitovich, the former NCIS: Los Angeles star mentioned efforts to revive the series after its 14-year-long run. In the NCIS spin-off, O’Donnell played G. Callen, the Special Agent in Charge of the Los Angeles office. The series also starred L.L. Cool J as Sam Hanna and Eric Christian Olsen as Marty Deeks. NCIS: LA had a decent run on CBS, though not quite as long as its predecessor, which concluded its 22nd season.
When Mitovich raised the question of a television movie to depict the events following his time on the series, O’Donnell admitted he was on board. “It was tough to leave because everyone just loved working with each other,” O’Donnell added. The NCIS: LA characters, such as Hanna, continue to live on in other franchise series. In the interview, O’Donnell learned that his character was still with his wife, and Sam Hanna was stuck in a DMZ. The actor was pleased to hear that Callen and Anna were having a baby, but he is also focused on the next phase in his career.
Chris O’Donnell Has Set His Sights On a New Procedural. A few years following the cancellation of NCIS: LA, Chris O’Donnell is joining another spin-off. The Batman & Robin actor was promoting his return to the stage in 9-1-1: Nashville. The flagship series follows the world of first responders, starring Angela Bassett and Jennifer Love Hewitt. The series already had one spin-off, entitled 9-1-1: Lone Star, and O’Donnell will head up the new series set in Nashville.
When fans think of NCIS: Los Angeles, the first face that comes to mind is Chris O’Donnell, who played Special Agent G. Callen for over a decade. But what most people didn’t know is that O’Donnell and his castmates weren’t ready to say goodbye when CBS pulled the plug. Recently, O’Donnell revealed that he tried to save the series, proving just how deeply he cared about the show and its loyal fanbase.
This revelation has reignited conversations about the future of the NCIS franchise and what might have been if his efforts had succeeded. Let’s dive into O’Donnell’s heartfelt attempt, the reasons behind the cancellation, and what it all means for fans who still hold out hope.
The Legacy of ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’
How It All Started
NCIS: Los Angeles premiered in 2009 as the first official spin-off of NCIS. The show brought a fresh flavor to the franchise, mixing undercover operations with high-stakes missions in the City of Angels.
13 Seasons of Success
With 14 action-packed seasons and more than 300 episodes, the series cemented itself as a staple in primetime television. O’Donnell’s chemistry with LL Cool J (Sam Hanna) gave fans the perfect mix of intensity and humor.
Chris O’Donnell’s Emotional Revelation
“We Suggested It” — What He Meant
O’Donnell recently shared that the cast and crew tried brainstorming ways to keep the series alive—whether through a shorter season, streaming spin-offs, or even rebranding the storyline. His quote, “We suggested it,” revealed their determination to find a compromise.
Why His Words Matter
When a lead actor speaks about trying to save a show, it proves the depth of their investment. O’Donnell wasn’t just clocking in for a paycheck; he genuinely cared about the fans and the legacy of NCIS: LA.
Why Did CBS Cancel ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’?
Rising Costs
Producing a long-running drama in Los Angeles isn’t cheap. From cast salaries to production logistics, the budget was massive.
Network Strategy
CBS may have shifted focus toward fresher spin-offs like NCIS: Hawai’i and NCIS: Sydney. Unfortunately, that meant the end of LA.
The Ratings Factor
While still strong, the ratings had dipped compared to earlier seasons, making the show more vulnerable.
The Fan Reaction
Shock and Disappointment
For many viewers, the cancellation came out of nowhere. Social media exploded with hashtags like #SaveNCISLA and #BringBackNCISLA.
Petitions and Campaigns
Fans launched petitions urging CBS and Paramount+ to reconsider. Sadly, the network didn’t budge.
Could Streaming Have Saved It?
The Paramount+ Possibility
Given the success of streaming platforms reviving canceled shows, many hoped NCIS: LA would find new life on Paramount+.
Missed Opportunity
O’Donnell hinted that discussions might have been on the table, but the idea never moved forward.
Chris O’Donnell’s Bond With His Co-Stars
LL Cool J and the Brotherhood
The friendship between O’Donnell and LL Cool J went beyond the screen. They often described each other as “brothers,” making the show’s ending even harder to accept.
A Family On and Off-Screen
The cast had become a tight-knit family after more than a decade together, making the cancellation a personal loss.
Comparisons With Other NCIS Spin-Offs
‘NCIS: Hawai’i’
While NCIS: Hawai’i gained traction, it never fully captured the same gritty undercover vibe of LA.
‘NCIS: New Orleans’
That spin-off ended after seven seasons, but LA lasted twice as long—proof of its unique staying power.
The Future of the Franchise
CBS clearly wants to keep NCIS fresh with new locations, but fans argue that NCIS: LA still had untapped potential.
O’Donnell’s Career Beyond NCIS
What’s Next for Him?
With his chapter as Callen closed, O’Donnell has hinted at spending more time with family and exploring new acting projects.
From Batman to Callen
Before NCIS, he was known for roles in Batman Forever, Vertical Limit, and various dramas. His versatility ensures fans will see him again soon.
Could There Still Be a Future for ‘NCIS: LA’?
Spin-Off Within a Spin-Off?
Some fans suggest a limited series or movie continuation on streaming. After all, if Gilmore Girls and Dexter could return, why not NCIS: LA?
Fan Power Can’t Be Underestimated
As we’ve seen in Hollywood, passionate fanbases often influence decisions. The story might not be over just yet.
Lessons Learned From the Cancellation
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No show is safe, no matter how successful.
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Networks prioritize costs and fresh branding over legacy.
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Actors like O’Donnell care as much as the fans.
Conclusion
Chris O’Donnell’s heartfelt attempt to save NCIS: Los Angeles shines a light on the passion behind the show’s success. While CBS decided to move on, his dedication reminds fans that their love for the series was shared by the cast themselves. For now, the book may be closed, but in television, no door ever stays locked forever.
