NCIS: Los Angeles star Daniela Ruah says Kensi Blye’s personality shift wasn’t random — it happened the moment Eric Christian Olsen joined the cast.
On the podcast Off Duty: An NCIS Rewatch, Ruah explained she originally played Kensi as tightly controlled and serious, believing strength and intelligence left little room for humor. That approach showed even in her posture and body language.
When Olsen arrived as Deeks, his improvisational energy clashed with Kensi’s rigidity. Showrunner Shane Brennan stepped in, suggesting the character needed visible warmth — even subtly — so viewers could connect with their dynamic.
The change reshaped the series’ emotional tone. Kensi stayed capable and tough but gained vulnerability and humor, ultimately creating the long-running “Densi” relationship that became central to the show for years.