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Mark Harmon’s departure from NCIS came as a shock to fans around the world, but those close to the production say it was far from an abrupt decision. Behind the scenes, creative tensions had been brewing, and after nearly 20 years on the show, Harmon was increasingly seeking more personal time. Although the official word from CBS called it a “mutual decision,” insiders suggest that network executives believed the series needed fresh energy to thrive in its later seasons, especially as viewership habits evolved.

Harmon had already begun scaling back his role, but the demanding nature of the show’s filming schedule reportedly took a toll. Producers ultimately felt that a clean break was needed to give new characters and storylines room to grow. Rather than write him out suddenly, the showrunners gave his character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs, a carefully crafted and emotional farewell that offered closure for long-time fans.

While many viewers continue to hope Harmon will return for guest appearances, no official plans have been announced. His exit marked the end of an era, transforming NCIS and pushing the series to redefine itself without its iconic lead. Though bittersweet, the show moves forward, working to honor its legacy while forging a new path.

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In NCIS: ORIGINS, viewers meet a very different Leroy Jethro Gibbs than the confident, self-assured version known from the original NCIS series. According to the showrunners, this shift is intentional and central to the story they’re telling.

“These characters are in the process of discovering the truth within themselves, which is especially compelling for Gibbs,” said Gina Lucita Montreal in an interview with Movieguide®. “The Gibbs we know from the original show is certain of who he is. In ORIGINS, he hasn’t become that person yet. He’s still figuring out what he believes and what truth means to him. That journey is not only interesting but also relatable—it’s something we all go through.”

This internal struggle comes to a head in the season finale, where Gibbs and his team face a critical choice: lie to cover up Gibbs’ past actions or come clean and face the consequences. Ultimately, Gibbs chooses honesty—a pivotal moment that reflects his ongoing evolution, as highlighted in Movieguide®’s review.

Montreal added that ORIGINS places a strong emphasis on the emotional toll of military work. “We’re interested in exploring what goes on inside someone’s head and how those struggles shape who they become,” she said.

The finale also tests the loyalty of those closest to Gibbs, particularly Special Agent Lala Dominguez. Her character faces serious consequences for standing by him.

“There’s a lot of tension and disagreement,” said Mariel Molino, who plays Dominguez, in an interview with TV Insider. “The team risks losing everything—their jobs, their freedom. You see people at their worst. Lala is torn between her friendship with Gibbs and her duty.”

With ORIGINS renewed for a second season—and a dramatic cliffhanger ending to the first—fans can look forward to even deeper character development and more high-stakes drama in the episodes ahead.

Daniela Ruah’s Directorial Journey: A Deeper Look at NCIS: Los Angeles Episode “Flesh & Blood”

Daniela Ruah’s remarkable career on NCIS: Los Angeles spans fourteen seasons, where she captivated audiences as the fierce and determined Special Agent Kensi Blye. But beyond her role in front of the camera, Ruah has proven herself to be a multi-faceted talent with a passion for storytelling. One of the standout moments in her journey came when she stepped behind the lens to direct Season 14, Episode 7, titled “Flesh & Blood.” This episode not only tackled the sensitive issue of domestic violence but also highlighted Ruah’s unique directorial perspective, bringing an emotional depth and authenticity to the subject.

A Natural Evolution: Ruah’s Path to Directing

Ruah’s transition from acting to directing was a gradual, passion-driven process. Even while juggling her busy schedule as a lead actor on NCIS: Los Angeles, Ruah sought opportunities to develop her directorial skills. Through hands-on experience and mentorship, she honed her craft, eventually taking the reins on several episodes of the show. Her growth behind the camera reflects her deep dedication to the art of filmmaking and her commitment to shaping compelling narratives from all angles.

“Flesh & Blood”: Confronting Domestic Violence with Sensitivity

The episode “Flesh & Blood” centered on the murder of a Navy officer, with his wife, Clarice (Marnee Carpenter), initially suspected of the crime. However, as the investigation unfolded, it became clear that the case was tied to a history of domestic abuse. This challenging and emotionally charged storyline allowed Ruah to bring a nuanced and compassionate perspective to the sensitive subject of domestic violence.

A Thoughtful Approach: Ruah’s Directorial Vision

As the director of “Flesh & Blood,” Ruah approached the portrayal of domestic violence with exceptional care and authenticity. In interviews, she emphasized the importance of respecting the victim’s experience and capturing the psychological complexities of abusive relationships. Her direction focused on the trauma endured by victims, the manipulation they suffer, and the courage it takes to escape. As a female director, Ruah brought a distinct and empathetic lens to the story, resulting in a portrayal that resonated with both honesty and empathy.

Deeks’s Personal Connection: Deepening the Emotional Impact

One of the episode’s most poignant elements was the personal connection drawn between the case and Marty Deeks (Eric Christian Olsen). Deeks’s own painful history of growing up in an abusive household added a powerful layer to the investigation, allowing him to relate to Clarice in a deeply personal way. The scenes in which Deeks shares his past with Clarice were directed with raw emotion, highlighting the generational impact of domestic violence. Ruah’s skillful direction turned these moments into a powerful exploration of empathy and understanding, underscoring the lasting effects of trauma.

Creating Authentic Performances: Ruah’s Work with the Cast

Ruah credited her actors, particularly Marnee Carpenter and Eric Christian Olsen, for their ability to portray such complex emotions with depth and truth. She focused on creating a supportive and safe environment on set, allowing the actors to delve into the difficult emotions required by the storyline. With her experience as an actor, Ruah was able to effectively communicate with her performers, guiding them through the emotional nuances of their roles and ensuring that their performances felt both honest and impactful.

Beyond the Procedural: Focusing on the Human Element

While NCIS: Los Angeles is known for its action-packed investigations and intense drama, “Flesh & Blood” shifted the focus to the emotional and human side of the story. Ruah’s direction emphasized the personal toll of domestic violence, not just on the victims but on the investigators as well. The episode served as a reminder that the impact of violence stretches beyond the crime scene, affecting the lives of those involved.

A Lasting Impact: Raising Awareness and Fostering Empathy

By addressing the topic of domestic violence with such sensitivity and depth, “Flesh & Blood” became more than just another episode of NCIS: Los Angeles. It provided an opportunity to raise awareness about a vital issue while fostering empathy among viewers. The portrayal of Clarice’s trauma and Deeks’s personal connection to the case resonated with anyone who has experienced or been affected by similar circumstances. In this way, Ruah’s work demonstrated the power of television to engage with important social issues and to spark meaningful conversations.

Conclusion: A Significant Achievement in Ruah’s Directorial Career

Daniela Ruah’s direction of “Flesh & Blood” marks a significant milestone in her career as a filmmaker. Through her thoughtful and sensitive portrayal of domestic violence, she created an episode that was not only emotionally compelling but also an important exploration of human resilience and the power of connection in the face of trauma. By guiding her actors to deliver authentic performances and prioritizing the emotional core of the story, Ruah crafted a standout episode that will be remembered as one of the most impactful of NCIS: Los Angeles’s long run. This episode serves as a testament to her growth as a director and her dedication to meaningful, impactful storytelling.