Admit it, you’ve probably seen her on your screen, sunglasses on, confident stride, perfectly timed comeback… yes, it’s Special Agent Kensi Blye from NCIS : Los Angeles ! But what many people don’t realize is that behind this Hollywood-style actress lies a truly Portuguese soul. That’s right, Daniela Ruah was born in Boston, but she’s one of Portugal’s brightest stars!

An American… almost by accident

Daniela Sofia Korn Ruah was born in 1983 in Boston to Portuguese parents. Her father is a doctor, her mother an ophthalmologist, and they were living temporarily in the U.S. at the time. You could say Daniela was born with a multicultural passport. Soon after, the family returned to Lisbon, where she grew up, studied, and took her first steps into the entertainment world.

Beginnings in Lisbon, telenovelas, theater, and natural charm

Before becoming America’s favorite special agent, Daniela made a name for herself in Portugal. She started acting at 16 in the TV series Jardins Proibidos (a true Portuguese classic!) and went on to appear in hits like Filha do Mar, Inspector Max, and Dei-te Quase Tudo. Her charisma, intense gaze, and professionalism quickly set her apart.

But Daniela Ruah wasn’t one to stay “home-bound.” She packed her bags for New York to study acting at the prestigious Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute. Yes, that one, the legendary method acting school that trained Pacino, De Niro, and Marilyn Monroe. (Talk about ambition !)

From Lisbon to Los Angeles, mission accomplished

And then came the big turning point. In 2009, Daniela landed the role of Kensi Blye in NCIS : Los Angeles. Ten seasons later, she had become one of the show’s key figures — admired for her strength, authenticity, and that touch of humanity she brings to every scene. No doubt about it: behind the badge is a fully-fledged actress.

Fun fact: Daniela is married to David Paul Olsen, a stuntman and the brother of Eric Christian Olsen (who plays Marty Deeks in NCIS). Yep, fiction turned into reality, and the couple now has two adorable children.

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Her love for Portugal, always alive

Despite her success across the Atlantic, Daniela has never forgotten where she comes from. She speaks Portuguese fluently, frequently returns to Lisbon, and proudly embraces her roots. In 2018, she co-hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in Lisbon in front of millions of viewers, proving that her heart still beats for home.

On social media, she often shares family moments in Portugal, her favorite Portuguese foods (yes, bacalhau and pastéis de nata make regular appearances !), and uses her platform to promote her country abroad.

Why we love her so much ?

Because she’s achieved what few Portuguese have starring in a major American TV series without ever losing her authenticity. Because she represents a modern, open-minded, bilingual generation, proud of her origins yet perfectly at ease in Hollywood. And above all, because she proves that it’s possible to shine internationally without becoming a cliché. Daniela is simply inspiring !

Quick facts for fans (or the curious)

Iconic show : NCIS: Los Angeles (CBS, 2009-2023)
Role : Kensi Blye, NCIS Special Agent, expert in martial arts and tense negotiations.
Recent projects : directed several NCIS episodes ; appears in Portuguese television shows like Dança com as Estrelas (Portugal’s Dancing with the Stars).
Languages : english, Portuguese, Spanish, fluently.
Fun tidbit : on set, she sometimes switches from Portuguese to English mid-scene, confusing her co-stars in the best way possible.

Daniela Ruah is living proof that Portuguese talent knows no borders. Born in Boston, trained in Lisbon, and discovered in Hollywood, she’s the perfect bridge between two worlds. And deep down, when she plays Kensi with such confidence, you can tell she’s still got that Portuguese fire in her eyes.

So next time you’re watching NCIS : Los Angeles and Kensi walks onto the screen, remember, behind that American badge beats a Portuguese heart !