NCIS LA's Marty Deeks star shares disappointing update on possible return

Eric Christian Olsen, famed for his role as Marty Deeks on NCIS: Los Angeles, isn't itching to dive back into the CBS franchise just yet.

The actor became a fan favourite, starting as a recurring character in season one and later securing a spot in the main cast.

However, fans were disheartened when the popular spin-off was axed after its 14th season last year.

Despite his co-star LL Cool J making a cameo as Sam Hanna in the now-cancelled NCIS: Hawaii's third season, Eric doesn't foresee a similar move for himself.

In a chat with TVLine, when quizzed about LL's appearance and whether it stirred any desire to return, Eric shared: "I actively miss Todd [James Todd Smith, LL's real name], and I was texting with Renee [Felice Smith] this morning, and I see [sister-in-law] Daniela [Ruah] all the time", reports the Express.

He maintains close bonds with his former co-stars but doesn't believe there's an imminent comeback for Marty.

While the original NCIS sails into its 22nd season, its offshoots have been shelved to make way for a fresh prequel centred on a young Leroy Gibbs (played by Austin Stowell).

With the new series already juggling numerous characters and plots, squeezing in guest spots from beloved agents of past spin-offs could prove challenging.

Echoing this reality, Eric hinted that his yearning to step into Deeks' shoes again is "not so much".

Despite leaving NCIS, he's still a big name in the TV industry, having snagged the role of executive producer for the upcoming series of Matlock. 

He might even step back in front of the camera for the Kathy Bates-led legal drama, marking his first acting gig since his NCIS departure.

The star confessed that he often imagines himself in "these really good, dramatic or funny scenes" of the new show "because they're so beautiful". Whether he returns as Deeks or takes on a new role, fans are eager to see Eric grace their screens once more.

Off-screen, he's living it up with his wife Sarah Wright and their three kids.

NCIS: Los Angeles airs on CBS and is available to stream on Paramount+ in the UK.