She gave her notice and is leaving NCIS to work with Eric Beale (Barrett Foa) at his computer software company Kaleidoscope, which is opening up a new office in Tokyo. “When you have an actor of Gerald McRaney's caliber, you do everything you can to make sure you get him as often as possible,” executive producer R.

Why did Hetty disappear from NCIS?

In order to ensure Hunt's safety during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, the creators decided to keep her away from the sets. So Hetty being away from the show is a purposeful choice as older people tend to be more susceptible to catching the virus.

Is Hetty returning to NCIS?

Yes! Linda Hunt returned as Hetty in the season 12 finale of NCIS: Los Angeles and as she had Kilbride unpack her possessions, it is looking as if she is here to stay. ... Per Gemmill, “She'll try to resolve that on her own, but in the end, it will suck in the entire team—much to Kilbride's [disapproval].”