Eric Christian Olsen Reveals CBS Almost Rejected Him as Deeks on NCIS: Los Angeles

Fans of NCIS: Los Angeles can hardly imagine the series without Marty Deeks, but Eric Christian Olsen has revealed that he almost never got the role that would make him a fan favorite.

During an appearance on the NCIS: Partners & Probies podcast, Olsen explained that CBS executives were initially not convinced he was the right person for the character. According to the actor, creator Shane Brennan had to push strongly for him to be cast.

“They didn’t want me as Deeks,” Olsen recalled. “They just didn’t want me period.”

At the time, Olsen was mainly focused on movie projects but was looking for a television opportunity that would allow him to work in Los Angeles. His agent introduced him to the NCIS: Los Angeles role, although Olsen admitted he was unfamiliar with the franchise at first.

After meeting with Brennan, the actor quickly connected with the character and brought his own style to the audition. He experimented with improvisation and explored the potential chemistry between Deeks and Kensi Blye, played by Daniela Ruah.

Brennan reportedly saw something special in Olsen’s performance, but CBS executives remained hesitant and encouraged producers to continue looking for another actor.

Olsen was initially brought in for only a few episodes near the end of Season 1. However, Brennan continued to support his return, and Deeks officially became a full-time member of the team in Season 2.

The casting decision turned out to be a major success. Deeks became one of the most recognizable characters in the series, while his relationship with Kensi developed into one of the most beloved romances in the entire NCIS universe.

Following the conclusion of NCIS: Los Angeles in 2023, Olsen has expanded his career behind the scenes, working as a producer on projects including Matlock and NCIS: Origins.