Renée Felice Smith Was Originally Supposed To Only Be A Guest Star On NCIS

As brilliant analyst Nell Jones, Renée Felice Smith fits perfectly with the rest of the "NCIS: Los Angeles" cast. It might shock fans that Nell wasn't intended to be a regular character in the series.

According to a Patch interview, when Smith read for Season 2 of the show, she would only be a guest star. But Smith said, "I guess the writers saw a lot of opportunity for the character," especially that "[she] kind of brings a new voice to the show, a little bit younger, she's kind of spunky, and she's got a different perspective on things." Smith's energy and chemistry with the actors was evident, and soon enough, she became a regular cast member of "NCIS: Los Angeles."

The actress remained a part of the series until the Season 12 finale, where Nell leaves NCIS to join her partner Eric in Tokyo. But she loved making the show, "especially to have been able to play the 'smart girl,' quite frankly" (via TV Insider). When Smith was asked by TV Insider if she would come back for the 300th episode, she immediately responded, "Of course."