This Monday on CBS’ NCIS: Hawai’i, Special Agent Lucy Tara returns — a bit early, at that! — from her agent afloat assignment, after months away from both the team and, more importantly, her partner, Kate Whistler.
TVLine spoke exclusively with Yasmine Al-Bustami about her midseason absence, just how “surrpise!”-ing Lucy’s return is, a “spicy” upcoming episode and the importance of her and Tori Anderson’s on-screen connection. (Update: Also, you can find an exclusive sneak peek at the #Kacy reunion at bottom.) I did! It was yesterday (Tuesday) and I was doing a “Kacy” scene, so I was with Tori [Anderson]…. We popped some non-alcoholic champagne — I think it was Welch’s grape juice, or whatever juice — and we heard the news along with everybody, which was really nice. We were the first scene up that day, so it was exciting.
So, what all were you busy with during your time away from the show, that the producers were so flexible to let you go off and do? Um…. Life. Life, Matt. I was able to get back to the mainland, which was really nice for me, just to spend some time with my friends and my family and do some travels, and to fulfill some work obligations.
NCIS: Hawai’i’s Yasmine Al-Bustami Talks Up Lucy’s Return and the Joy of #Kacy: ‘I Feel Like We’re at a High Now’
A Warm Welcome Back to Lucy Tara
When Yasmine Al-Bustami stepped back onto the NCIS: Hawai’i set as Lucy Tara, fans collectively exhaled. The absence had been deeply felt. But now, Lucy is back — and Yasmine? She’s bringing the sunshine, sass, and heart we’ve all missed.
The Emotional Power of Lucy’s Return
Why Lucy’s Comeback Matters
In a world where characters come and go, Lucy’s reappearance is more than just another plot twist. It’s emotional, empowering, and, for the LGBTQ+ community especially, deeply validating.
What Kept Lucy Away
Lucy had been written off for a brief period due to her character being stationed overseas. While it fit the storyline, fans knew something was missing: the electric dynamic between Lucy and Kate.
The Rise and Reign of #Kacy
A Love Story Worth Rooting For
“Kacy” — the ship name for Lucy Tara and Kate Whistler — has become one of TV’s most beloved queer couples. Why? Because it feels real. Raw, imperfect, and refreshingly relatable.
Yasmine Speaks: ‘We’re at a High Now’
Al-Bustami beams with joy when talking about Kacy. “I feel like we’re at a high now,” she shares. That high isn’t just for Lucy and Kate — it’s for fans who have been starved of authentic LGBTQ+ storytelling.
Behind the Scenes: What It’s Like Being Back
Reconnecting with Cast and Crew
Yasmine describes the return as “coming home.” From Vanessa Lachey (Jane Tennant) to Noah Mills (Jesse Boone), the whole cast welcomed her with open arms. The chemistry? Still electric.
Shooting #Kacy Scenes Again
Every Kacy scene feels like lightning in a bottle. Al-Bustami notes that filming romantic moments again was “like riding a bike… but with butterflies.”
Why Lucy’s Arc Is More Important Than Ever
The Power of Representation
Let’s face it — representation isn’t just a buzzword. Seeing a queer woman of color in a complex, leading role is revolutionary. And Al-Bustami knows it.
Breaking TV Stereotypes
Lucy Tara isn’t a token character. She’s tough yet vulnerable, confident yet unsure — a walking contradiction, and that’s what makes her human.
The Future of #Kacy: What’s Next?
Wedding Bells in Paradise?
While Yasmine didn’t confirm a wedding, she didn’t deny it either. When asked about a possible #Kacy marriage, she laughed and said, “Well, we’ve got the island vibes already!”
More Ups and Downs Ahead
Love stories are never linear — especially in high-stakes crime dramas. Expect twists, emotional depth, and scenes that will make you reach for tissues.
Why #Kacy Is Blowing Up on Social Media
Trending on Twitter
Every time #Kacy shares a screen moment, Twitter lights up. Fan art, reaction gifs, and heartfelt posts flood timelines.
A Fandom That Shows Up
From Tumblr to TikTok, #Kacy fans are creative, loyal, and vocal. Their digital love affair fuels the couple’s longevity on screen.
Yasmine’s Insight on Portraying Queer Love Authentically
‘We Talk About the Real Stuff’
Yasmine emphasizes that she and Tori Anderson (Kate Whistler) work closely to ensure their scenes resonate. They focus on nuance — the silences, the glances, the hesitation before a kiss.
A Platform for Progress
Playing Lucy allows Yasmine to be part of something bigger. She often gets messages from fans thanking her for making them feel seen. That, she says, “is the real reward.”
NCIS: Hawai’i and Its Cultural Impact
Diverse Storytelling in Paradise
Set in Hawaii, the show embraces cultural roots, native stories, and a diverse cast. That setting amplifies Lucy and Kate’s journey — it’s not just a side plot; it’s central.
A Show That Listens
Producers and writers actively engage with fan feedback. The return of Lucy? It’s proof that fan voices do matter.
What Yasmine Hopes Viewers Take Away
“Love Deserves Screen Time”
Al-Bustami’s biggest wish? That viewers walk away knowing queer love is just love. “It’s not niche. It’s not a phase. It’s part of life, and we’re telling that story.”
‘Kacy’ Is Just Getting Started
Don’t expect Lucy and Kate to fade into the background. Yasmine teases more heart-racing storylines, deep emotional beats, and maybe — just maybe — a few surprises.
Final Thoughts: A Character Worth Rooting For
Lucy Tara isn’t just back — she’s better than ever. Thanks to Yasmine Al-Bustami’s passion and authenticity, the heartbeat of #Kacy continues to echo far beyond Hawaii’s shores. For fans old and new, this is more than a return — it’s a celebration.
FAQs
1. Is Yasmine Al-Bustami returning full-time to NCIS: Hawai’i?
Yes! She’s back in the mix with a full storyline arc and more screen time with her co-stars — especially with Tori Anderson (Kate).
2. Will Lucy and Kate (aka #Kacy) stay together this season?
While we can’t predict everything, all signs — and Al-Bustami’s own words — suggest the couple is on solid ground and growing stronger.
3. Why did Lucy leave the show temporarily?
The character was written off temporarily to serve overseas as part of the NCIS storyline. It also allowed the actress to take a brief break from filming.
4. Are there any spin-off plans for #Kacy?
There’s nothing official, but the idea has been floated by fans — and Yasmine has hinted she’d be open to it!
5. Where can I watch the latest season of NCIS: Hawai’i?
You can catch new episodes on CBS or stream them on Paramount+ shortly after airing.
