NCIS: L.A. has been on the air since 2009 and "Hetty" has been part of the team from day one. Linda Hunt (75) has played the leading role on the show for over ten years now - but could her time come to an end soon? "Hetty" has had significantly less airtime than usual in the past few episodes of the TV series which is why many fans feared that Linda Hunt could soon be saying farewell to NCIS: L.A.

NCIS: L.A. Season 12: Eric Christian Olsen posts a picture

Also, "Hetty" was already actively looking for a successor in the eleventh season to be ready for the event that she could no longer lead the team.

But the fans' fears might not be warranted, when we look at  Eric Christian Olsen's Instagram account. The "Marty Deeks" actor has actually hinted at some more airtime for "Hetty" in the upcoming 12th season of the show. He posted a picture in his Instagram story with his NCIS: L.A. co-stars Daniela Ruah and Linda Hunt and wrote the following: "More of that in season 12." 

Could this point to a new storyline involving all three characters, "Hetty", "Deeks" and "Kensi" in the new season?

NCIS: L.A.: Who will be "Hetty's" successor?

Fans are truly hoping that the Instagram post on Olsen's account will really mean more airtime for "Hetty". Nevertheless, after the twelfth season, the team leader could hand over the reins to someone from her squad. A possible storyline in the new season of NCIS: L.A. would be "Hetty" continuing the search for a successor. The most probable choices will be "Callen" (Chris O'Donnell), "Hanna" (LL Cool J), or "Nell" (Renée Felice Smith).

We will only know for sure what will happen to "Hetty" in season 12 once the new episodes start airing in the fall. The restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic meant that production had to be stopped, which could also mean that the NCIS: L.A. season 12 premiere might be pushed back. We will have to wait and see!

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What year did 'NCIS' premiere on CBS?

'NCIS: L.A.' "Callen": His career as an agent

Chris O'Donnell has played the part since 2009!

'NCIS: L.A.' "Callen": His Career As An Agent