A Familiar Face Returns, But Where Does He Belong?
The recent reappearance of LL Cool J as the beloved Sam Hanna in the flagship NCIS series has been a welcome balm for fans still reeling from the cancellations of both NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: Hawai’i. Sam’s journey has taken him from the sunny shores of LA to the tropical landscapes of Hawai’i, and now to the bustling streets of Washington D.C. But the burning question on everyone’s mind is: is this a fleeting visit, or has LL Cool J found a new permanent home within the original NCIS team?
From Sunset Boulevard to Capitol Hill: Sam’s Evolving Role
When Sam Hanna first graced our screens in the NCIS universe, he was the cool, collected, and formidable Senior Field Agent of the Office of Special Projects in Los Angeles. After fourteen seasons of undercover operations and high-stakes missions, NCIS: LA concluded its run. However, LL Cool J’s connection to the franchise wasn’t over. He subsequently joined NCIS: Hawai’i as a recurring guest star, bringing his signature blend of toughness and charm to the Pearl Harbor team. With the unexpected cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i after three seasons, Sam’s future within the NCIS world became uncertain once again.
His recent appearance in the flagship NCIS saw Sam in a new light – a congressional liaison working on Capitol Hill. This career shift was explained as a desire for a “change of pace” after the loss of his team in Hawai’i, allowing him to use his experience to influence policy. While this new role offered a different dynamic, it also felt somewhat removed from the core action of the NCIS team.
The Telling Signs: Hints of a More Permanent Stay
However, the events of the episode featuring Sam’s return strongly suggest that his time on Capitol Hill might be a temporary detour. Several key moments point towards a more permanent integration into the NCIS team:
- A Lingering Sense of Belonging: Despite his new job, Sam seamlessly reintegrated with the NCIS team, his skills and instincts proving invaluable in solving the case. This ease of collaboration highlighted his enduring connection to the agency’s core mission.
- A Missed Calling: In a poignant conversation with Director Vance, Sam admitted that he missed the work of being an NCIS agent. This heartfelt confession indicated a potential dissatisfaction with his current role and a yearning for the familiar challenges of field work.
- Unfinished Business with Hetty: The cryptic mention of Sam having “things to take care of” related to the rumored sighting of Hetty Lange in the DMZ strongly suggests a personal mission that aligns more closely with his skills as a former agent. This storyline could serve as a natural bridge back into the NCIS world.
- Resignation from Capitol Hill: The most telling sign of a potential full-time return was Sam’s decision to resign from his congressional liaison position at the end of the episode. This significant move frees him up for a more active role within NCIS.
What a Full-Time Return Would Mean for NCIS
If LL Cool J were to join the main cast of NCIS full-time, it would inject a significant dose of familiar energy and star power into the long-running series. His established fanbase from NCIS: Los Angeles and his charismatic presence would undoubtedly attract viewers. Furthermore, his experience and unique skill set could bring a fresh dynamic to the existing team, offering new perspectives and collaborations.
Balancing the Loss of Two Spinoffs: A Strategic Move?
The cancellations of NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: Hawai’i left a noticeable gap in the NCIS franchise lineup. Bringing a beloved character like Sam Hanna into the flagship series could be a strategic move to help fill that void and retain viewers who were invested in those now-concluded chapters. It offers a sense of continuity and allows fans to continue following a familiar face within the NCIS universe.
Conclusion: The Future Looks Promising for Sam Hanna’s Full-Time NCIS Return
Based on the narrative developments in his recent appearance and the actor’s undeniable connection to the franchise, the signs strongly point towards LL Cool J potentially joining the main cast of NCIS full-time. His resignation from his congressional role, his admission of missing field work, and the looming storyline involving Hetty all suggest a trajectory that leads him back to the heart of NCIS investigations. While nothing has been officially confirmed, the pieces are falling into place for Sam Hanna to trade his suits for tactical gear once again, bringing his signature style and expertise to the Washington D.C. team and offering a welcome continuation for fans across the NCIS universe. The loss of LA and Hawai’i may pave the way for a significant gain for the original NCIS, with LL Cool J potentially becoming a permanent fixture once more.
