Eric Christian Olsen’s arrival on NCIS: Los Angeles didn’t just introduce Marty Deeks — it fundamentally reshaped Kensi Blye as a character.
When the series began, Kensi was portrayed as a rigid, no-nonsense agent. Daniela Ruah has since revealed that she initially believed being “strong and smart” meant suppressing humor and warmth entirely. That approach dominated Kensi’s early characterization during Season 1.
Everything changed when Olsen joined the cast near the end of the first season and became a regular in Season 2. His improvisational style and natural humor forced a recalibration. Showrunner Shane Brennan quickly realized that if Kensi remained emotionally closed off, audiences wouldn’t connect with Deeks — or their dynamic.
After being pulled aside by Brennan, Ruah softened Kensi’s reactions, allowing subtle smiles and warmth to creep in. That single adjustment unlocked one of the franchise’s most beloved relationships. “Densi” was born — and with it, a more layered, relatable Kensi Blye.