LL Cool J is officially returning to NCIS in Season 22, reprising his iconic role as Sam Hanna. After the end of NCIS: Los Angeles in 2023, many fans wondered if they would ever see Hanna again. Now, it’s confirmed—he’s back, and his presence could shake things up in a big way.
Why LL Cool J’s Return Is a Big Deal
LL Cool J spent over a decade as Sam Hanna, making him one of the most beloved characters in the NCIS franchise. Known for his toughness, loyalty, and incredible tactical skills, Hanna was a key player in NCIS: Los Angeles.
His appearance in NCIS: Hawai’i proved that his story wasn’t over yet, and now, with his return to the main NCIS series, it’s clear that CBS is keen on keeping the NCIS universe connected.
What Could Sam Hanna’s Role Be?
The big question now is: what will Hanna be doing in NCIS Season 22? There are a few strong possibilities:
- A Guest Arc or Recurring Role: Given that Hanna has already been featured in NCIS: Hawai’i, it’s possible that his return to NCIS will be in a recurring capacity rather than a full-time position. This would allow him to appear for special cases without fully joining the team.
- Ties to an International Operation: Sam Hanna’s expertise in counter-terrorism and special operations makes him a prime candidate for an international storyline. If the NCIS team finds itself dealing with a global threat, Hanna could be brought in as a specialist.
- Bridging the Gap Between NCIS and NCIS: Los Angeles: His return could also serve as a way to keep NCIS: Los Angeles alive in spirit. He might reference old colleagues, hint at unfinished business, or even set up potential future cameos from other characters.
Will This Lead to More NCIS Crossovers?
The NCIS franchise has always thrived on crossovers, and LL Cool J’s return could open the door for more. Could we see Chris O’Donnell’s G. Callen pop up? Or maybe Kensi and Deeks will make a surprise appearance?
The show has an opportunity to use Hanna’s return as a stepping stone for even bigger crossover events, possibly even setting the stage for another spin-off in the future.
Fans Are Excited – And They Want More
Following the announcement, fans took to social media to celebrate. Many expressed their excitement about seeing Sam Hanna again, with some even hoping that this could be the first step toward a full-fledged NCIS: Los Angeles revival.
One fan tweeted, “Sam Hanna is BACK? This is the best news ever! Now bring back Callen, and we’re all set!” Another wrote, “I missed NCIS: Los Angeles so much. Seeing Sam back is like getting a piece of it again.”
Final Thoughts
LL Cool J’s return as Sam Hanna is a major win for the NCIS franchise. His presence in Season 22 will not only bring nostalgia but also fresh storytelling opportunities. Whether he’s back for a single arc or something more permanent, one thing is clear—fans are ready to see Sam Hanna in action once again.
