Daniela Ruah Returns to the NCIS Universe as Director
Daniela Ruah, known for her portrayal of Kensi Blye in NCIS: Los Angeles from 2009 to 2023, is making her return to the NCIS universe. Following the spin-off’s conclusion last year, Ruah will be taking on a new role as a director.
Ruah is set to direct an episode of the main NCIS series this month, which will air in March, as well as an episode of NCIS: Hawai’i that will film next month and air in April, according to Deadline. Reflecting on her return, Ruah expressed her excitement, saying, “Kensi was born as a character on NCIS 15 years ago, so now to be able to step onto that set again, as a director, with that incredible cast and crew, is an absolute honor. So many familiar faces and people I love have welcomed me with open arms. It’s like coming home.”
This isn’t Ruah’s first experience in the director’s chair. She previously directed an episode of NCIS: Los Angeles a few years back. However, it hasn’t been confirmed whether she will make a cameo appearance as Kensi in the episodes she directs, despite her character discovering she was pregnant in her last appearance.
Meanwhile, another significant return to the franchise has been announced. Despite previously stating he wouldn’t return, Mark Harmon is set to make a comeback as the narrator and producer of NCIS: Origins, which will explore the early life of Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Harmon’s son, Sean Harmon, who has previously portrayed a young Gibbs, shared his excitement about the project. “The character of Gibbs has been an important part of my life for 20 years, both in watching my father craft the role and previously having the honor to play young Gibbs myself,” Sean said. “I always felt there was a tale worth telling about his earlier years, so I am thrilled to be stepping into a producing role alongside Gina, David, and my dad as we tell this story and reveal a new side of this beloved character.”
NCIS continues to air on CBS in the US, while Seasons 1-20 are available for streaming on Disney+ in the UK.
