NCIS: Hawaii’s Vanessa Lachey Tears Up Over Historic Role

Although we’re in the middle of a historic period in TV shows and representation, history is rarely made in that sector. That’s why Vanessa Lachey’s role as the first female lead in a TV franchise is no small feat. The actress even shed a few tears of pride when she recently sat down to talk about her hit series NCIS: Hawaii.

Tears of Pride From Vanessa Lachey

Vanessa Lachey stars as Jane Tennant, the first Special Agent in charge of the fictional Naval Criminal Investigative Service in the Pearl Harbor Field Office on CBS’s NCIS: Hawaii. Although the show is only in its second season, it has quickly become a fan favorite. Ahead of the first franchise-wide crossover event that premiered on CBS, Lachey discussed the significance of her role and the future of the show.

As she walked on stage, Lachey had tears in her eyes. But they were good tears, as she later explained because she never really thought that she’d be making history with the role of Jane Tennant until it was mentioned by the talk show hosts. She went on to say that she absolutely loves being the first female lead and added a “massive thank you to CBS studios and CBS networks” for giving her the opportunity to be that.

Lachey Dropped a Hint About Wilmer Valderrama

While discussing the much-anticipated crossover, Vanessa Lachey also teased her chemistry with Wilmer Valderrama. Valderrama plays the fan-favorite Special Agent Nick Torres on NCIS, who had to team up with Lachey’s team for the crossover.

When asked about the history of their characters and whether there was something more to their story, Vanessa Lachey hinted that both she and Valderrama brainstormed about it and “came up with this backstory.” Unfortunately for fans, they’re keeping their lips sealed about it for now. Their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, and it’s partially because the two actors have known each other for over 20 years. Who knew?