Will ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ Be Back for Season 12? Will Hetty Join?
For fans of the high-octane, sun-drenched action of “NCIS: Los Angeles,” the question of whether their favorite team would return for another season was a major point of anticipation. Following the gripping storylines and character developments of Season 11, the eagerness for a twelfth installment was palpable. Adding to this anticipation was the looming question surrounding the enigmatic Operations Manager, Henrietta “Hetty” Lange (Linda Hunt). Her reduced presence in recent seasons due to off-screen factors had left viewers wondering if she would play a significant role in the potential Season 12.
The good news for the dedicated “NCIS: Los Angeles” fanbase is that yes, the show was indeed renewed for a twelfth season by CBS. The announcement came on May 6, 2020, much to the relief of viewers who had been following the adventures of Callen, Sam, Kensi, Deeks, and the rest of the team. This renewal ensured that the dynamic world of undercover operations and personal relationships within the Office of Special Projects would continue to unfold.
Season 12 Renewal: A Testament to the Show’s Enduring Popularity
The renewal of “NCIS: Los Angeles” for Season 12 was a testament to the show’s consistent ratings and its loyal viewership. As a successful spin-off within the popular “NCIS” franchise, “NCIS: LA” had established itself as a reliable performer for CBS. Its blend of thrilling action sequences, intricate mysteries, and the strong chemistry among its ensemble cast continued to resonate with audiences, making its return for another season a logical decision for the network.
The announcement of the renewal brought a wave of relief and excitement among fans who had invested years in the characters and their storylines. It promised more of the signature undercover missions, the witty banter between Deeks and Kensi, and the unwavering partnership of Callen and Sam.
The Lingering Question: Would Hetty Lange Return for Season 12?
While the renewal for Season 12 was welcome news, the question of Henrietta “Hetty” Lange’s involvement remained a significant point of discussion. Linda Hunt, who portrays the beloved Operations Manager, had seen her on-screen presence reduced in recent seasons due to health and safety concerns. This had left a void in the team’s dynamic and prompted speculation about her future with the show.
The anticipation surrounding Hetty’s potential return for Season 12 was high. Fans missed her wise counsel, her cryptic missions, and her unique brand of leadership. The prospect of seeing her back in action at the Ops Center was a major draw for many viewers.
Hetty’s Presence in Season 12: A Mixture of Mystery and Return
Season 12 did indeed feature the return of Linda Hunt as Hetty Lange, but her presence was woven into the narrative in a way that acknowledged her real-world circumstances. Hetty’s storyline in Season 12 involved her being on a highly classified and mysterious mission, keeping her away from the team for extended periods.
However, in a move that delighted fans, Linda Hunt did appear in the Season 12 finale. Her return, albeit brief, was a significant moment, hinting at potential future involvement and reassuring viewers that Hetty was still a vital part of the “NCIS: Los Angeles” universe. Her interactions with the team, particularly with Nell Jones (Renée Felice Smith), who had been filling in as Operations Manager, were poignant and left the door open for her continued role in the series.
The Narrative Implications of Hetty’s Storyline in Season 12
Hetty’s mysterious mission in Season 12 served several narrative purposes. It allowed the show to account for Linda Hunt’s reduced filming schedule while still keeping the character’s presence felt through mentions and occasional video calls. It also created an intriguing subplot, leaving the team and the audience wondering about the nature and importance of her clandestine activities.
Furthermore, Hetty’s eventual return in the finale set up potential storylines for future seasons, suggesting that her mission was far from over and that she would likely have a significant role to play in the team’s future endeavors.
The Broader Context: Cast and Storylines in Season 12
Beyond the question of Hetty’s involvement, Season 12 of “NCIS: Los Angeles” continued to deliver the action-packed cases and character-driven stories that fans had come to expect. The core cast members all returned, navigating new challenges both professionally and personally.
Key storylines in Season 12 included the ongoing development of Kensi and Deeks’ relationship as they discussed their future, Callen’s continued search for answers about his past, and the professional growth of agents like Fatima Namazi (Medalion Rahimi) and Devin Roundtree (Caleb Castille). The season also saw the departure of long-time series regulars Barrett Foa (Eric Beale) and Renée Felice Smith (Nell Jones) in the finale, marking a significant shift in the team’s dynamic.
Conclusion: Season 12 Delivered Action and Hetty’s Return
In conclusion, “NCIS: Los Angeles” did indeed return for a twelfth season, much to the delight of its dedicated fanbase. While Linda Hunt’s presence as Hetty Lange was less consistent throughout the season due to her character’s mysterious off-screen mission, her appearance in the season finale provided a welcome return and hinted at her continued involvement in the series. Season 12 continued the show’s tradition of thrilling cases and compelling character development, solidifying its place as a beloved part of the “NCIS” franchise. For fans who were eagerly awaiting the return of the team and hoping for Hetty’s presence, Season 12 offered a satisfying continuation of the “NCIS: Los Angeles” saga.
