So a typical workday on NCIS involves lots of ass whooping. Best job ever?

For sure. My character, Kensi, is a total badass. The stunt work is a blast because I get to train with the stunt guys from The Matrix and Fight Club. I love elbowing people in the face. That’s my character’s go-to move.

Your character packs serious heat. Had you ever shot a gun before NCIS?

Never. But I love it. Before the pilot we got to shoot 9 mm Sigs. I want to shoot the Desert Eagle .50, which is a big-as-your-leg magnum. Having a gun in your hand is very empowering.

Does your NCIS costar LL Cool J make you call him by his full name: Ladies Love Cool James?

He introduced himself as Todd. But I lived in Portugal, so I didn’t grow up on LL, and I was clueless when TMZ asked me if he taught me his lip-licking thing. I thought they were trying to get some-thing sexual out of me. I had no idea it was his trademark.

Does LL—sorry, Todd—just start talking to you in rhymes all the time?

No, but he’ll start beat-boxing on set, and I’ll start banging the table. Then maybe Barrett Foa, who plays Eric, will add melody, and it gets a little funky.

Define for us your perfect guy.

No one wants perfection. I want a confident, smart guy, obviously, but what’s hot is a guy who doesn’t have all the answers. We gals like a guy we can help because, ultimately, we like being needed.

Daniela Ruah

Daniela Ruah

Daniela Ruah

Daniela Ruah

Daniela Ruah

Daniela Ruah