Renée Felice Smith Promoted to NCIS: Los Angeles Regular

Renee Felice Smith, who began playing perky, lovable intelligence analyst Nell Jones early this season, is now a series regular on NCIS: Los Angeles.

"Renee is an exciting and fun addition to the cast," Executive Producer Shane Brennan said.

"Like the character she plays, Renee is adorable, fearless and an absolute joy to work with. We're delighted to have her on the NCIS: Los Angeles team."

The second-year series has really hit its stride this year, with Smith and fellow new regular Eric Christian Olsen (Deeks) playing important roles in the characters' dynamics.

The on-screen chemistry of Callen (Chris O'Donnell) and Sam (LL Cool J) has always been strong, while Hetty (Linda Hunt) endeared herself to the audience from day one.

Thanks to Deeks' partnering with Kensi (Daniela Ruah) and Nell's banter with Eric (Barrett Foa), the show is developing some great relationships to compliment its action.

It's unclear if the plot lines of Dom and Nate were planned from the beginning, but regardless, you can't go wrong with more Nell. Congrats to Renee on her promotion.

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.