David Paul Olsen works behind the scenes in Hollywood as an accomplished stunt performer, coordinator, and entrepreneur, though he's most widely recognized as the husband of NCIS: Los Angeles star Daniela Ruah. While his wife commands attention on television screens worldwide, David has built a formidable career executing high-stakes action sequences in major film and television productions. From serving as a stunt double on the set of NCIS: Los Angeles to founding a specialized security door manufacturing company, he operates as a steady, grounded force away from the glaring flash of celebrity spotlights.
Born on January 2, 1976, in Moline, Illinois, David grew up in a close-knit family alongside his younger brother, actor Eric Christian Olsen. Their parents instilled a strong work ethic and a passion for active living. Before finding his footing in the entertainment industry, David served in the United States military as a Navy SEAL. This demanding background shaped his physical discipline, resilience, and capacity to handle high-pressure environments, which later served him well when transitioning into professional stunt work and specialized manufacturing ventures.
The intersection of family, television production, and romance defines how David and Daniela met. Eric Christian Olsen played an accidental matchmaker by introducing the two while they worked on the set of NCIS: Los Angeles. Eric stars as Detective Marty Deeks, whose on-screen partner and eventual wife Kensi Blye is played by Daniela Ruah. Behind the cameras, David worked as Eric's stunt double, stepping into dangerous scenarios to absorb the physical impacts of television combat. What began as professional collaboration turned into a genuine connection, supported subtly by Eric, who frequently invited them to the same social gatherings until a relationship blossomed.
David's professional stunt portfolio extends far beyond the NCIS franchise. Over two decades in the industry, he has lent his physical expertise and coordination skills to notable television series and blockbuster films. His resume includes stunt work on critically acclaimed projects like Westworld, Star Trek: Picard, Big Little Lies, and The Last Ship, where he also made appearances as an actor playing the character Smith. He also made a brief on-screen appearance in the blockbuster film Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. His ability to navigate complex physical choreography safely has made him a trusted asset among television directors and stunt coordinators.
Beyond television sets and stunt rigs, David balances his career with entrepreneurial pursuits and family life. Following a home break-in scare, he applied his background in security and tactical operations to found Garrison Door, a company specializing in ballistic-resistant, high-security doors for residential and commercial clients. This venture highlights a pragmatic side to his professional identity, solving real-world safety problems using the technical knowledge he gathered during his military service.
David and Daniela married on June 19, 2014, in an interfaith ceremony held in Portugal, honoring Ruah's Portuguese heritage. The couple shares two children, a son named River Isaac Ruah Olsen and a daughter named Sierra Esther Ruah Olsen. Despite maintaining high-profile connections within the entertainment industry, the family prioritizes a grounded lifestyle, splitting their time between professional commitments and raising their children away from unnecessary tabloid exposure. Daniela frequently shares glimpses of their family life on social media platforms, highlighting David's dedication as a hands-on father who loves outdoor activities, fitness, and spending quality time with his kids.
Philanthropy also plays a quiet role in David's daily routine. He has actively supported organizations such as the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, contributing to fundraising and awareness campaigns aimed at supporting individuals affected by chronic illnesses. By channeling his public visibility toward meaningful causes, he demonstrates a commitment to community welfare that mirrors his supportive role within his immediate family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did David Paul Olsen and Daniela Ruah meet?
They met on the set of NCIS: Los Angeles through David's brother and Daniela's co-star, Eric Christian Olsen. Eric invited them to mutual gatherings, allowing a natural romance to develop before they officially started dating in 2010.
What is David Paul Olsen's primary profession?
David works primarily as a Hollywood stunt performer and coordinator. He has doubled for his brother Eric on NCIS: Los Angeles and performed stunts for numerous high-profile television shows and films.
Do David Paul Olsen and Daniela Ruah have children?
Yes, they share two children together: a son named River Isaac Ruah Olsen, born in 2013, and a daughter named Sierra Esther Ruah Olsen, born in 2016.
What military background does David Paul Olsen have?
Before launching his career in the entertainment industry and stunt coordination, David served as a United States Navy SEAL, which provided the rigorous tactical and physical training he utilizes in both stunts and his security manufacturing business.
