Next month, the NCIS universe marks a significant milestone with its 1,000th episode celebration, featuring a momentous crossover event. One of the franchise favorites, Daniela Ruah, renowned for her portrayal of Special Agent Kensi Blye-Deeks in NCIS: Los Angeles, will make a guest appearance in the episode airing on Monday, April 15.
Vanessa Lachey, the lead of NCIS: Hawai’i, known for her role as Special Agent in Charge Jane Tennant since 2021, will also join the crossover event. However, as per TVLine’s initial report, neither actress is scheduled to make an “in-person” appearance.
At 40 years old, Daniela Ruah had a prominent role on NCIS: L.A. for 14 seasons until its conclusion in 2023. Following her acting tenure, she transitioned into directing, notably helming a March episode of NCIS. Ruah is set to direct the April 15 episode of NCIS: Hawai’i titled “The Next Thousand,” commemorating the franchise’s 1,001st episode.
The directing opportunity brought Ruah back together with her former L.A. co-star LL Cool J. LL Cool J joined the Hawai’i cast as a recurring character in season 2, which aired last year. He resumed his role as Special Agent Sam Hanna in two episodes in 2023 and has appeared in four episodes thus far in season 3, which premiered in February.
For the 1,000th franchise episode, viewers can anticipate a new portrayal of Leon Vance’s (played by Rocky Carroll) son Jared. Previously depicted by Khamani Griffin in season 6 and Akinsola Aribo in seasons 9 through 11, Jared will now be portrayed by Spence Moore II.
“This crossover will feature a personal storyline, particularly centered around Director Vance,” coshowrunner Steven D. Binder shared with TVLine earlier this year.
Fellow NCIS showrunner David North elaborated, saying, “One of our beloved characters will find themselves in grave danger, and you’ll witness the involvement of all the different franchises in a unique manner.”
