LL Cool J is making a triumphant return to the NCIS franchise, reprising his role as Sam Hanna in Season 22. This exciting news has thrilled fans of both NCIS and NCIS: Los Angeles, as it marks another major crossover moment within the long-running procedural universe. But what does Sam Hanna’s return mean for NCIS, and how could his storyline unfold?
A Fan-Favorite Character Makes a Comeback
LL Cool J played Sam Hanna, a former Navy SEAL turned NCIS: Los Angeles agent, for 14 seasons before the spin-off wrapped up in 2023. Many fans were disappointed when the show ended, fearing they might never see their favorite characters again. However, just months later, LL Cool J surprised viewers with a guest appearance in NCIS: Hawai’i, proving that Sam Hanna wasn’t done with the franchise. Now, with his confirmed return in NCIS Season 22, fans are eager to see what’s next for the beloved agent.
How Sam Hanna Could Fit Into NCIS Season 22
Sam Hanna’s return to NCIS raises a lot of intriguing questions. How will he fit into the current team dynamics? Will he be a full-time addition, or is this just a limited engagement? While details about his storyline remain scarce, there are a few possibilities:
- A Special Task Force Assignment: Given his expertise as a former SEAL and seasoned agent, Hanna could be brought in for a high-profile, high-stakes mission. His appearance in NCIS: Hawai’i hinted that he was still active in top-secret operations, making this scenario highly plausible.
- An Old Case Reopens: NCIS has a history of bringing back former agents when past cases resurface. Could Hanna’s return be tied to a case he worked on during his NCIS: Los Angeles days?
- A Long-Term Role on Gibbs’ Former Team?: With Mark Harmon’s Gibbs gone, NCIS is in a transitional phase. Hanna’s leadership skills and tactical knowledge could make him a strong addition to the main team, perhaps even as a mentor to younger agents.
What This Means for the NCIS Franchise
LL Cool J’s return signals a continued effort to keep the NCIS universe interconnected. With NCIS: Los Angeles now off the air and NCIS: Hawai’i finding its footing, crossovers like this help keep the franchise fresh and exciting.
Additionally, Hanna’s presence in NCIS could set the stage for more NCIS: Los Angeles alumni to return. Fans are already speculating about whether characters like G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell) or Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah) might follow in his footsteps.
One thing is for sure: LL Cool J’s return will inject new energy into NCIS Season 22, bringing back a character who has been deeply missed.
