A recent casting update for NCIS season 22 has officially confirmed the comeback of a prominent star from NCIS: Los Angeles who hasn’t appeared in the franchise for a while. The California-based spin-off was the original of the many NCIS series, laying the groundwork for the expanding universe of shows that followed. It wrapped up its 14th season in 2023, totaling 323 episodes. Since then, several characters from the series have made guest appearances in other NCIS installments, cementing the show’s lasting impact on the franchise.
On the NCISverse Instagram page, a teaser video shows a blurry figure approaching the camera. The person clears the lens by rubbing their thumb across it, revealing none other than LL Cool J. This confirms his return as Special Agent Sam Hanna in the main NCIS series. Although the actor hasn’t dropped any clues about his character’s storyline or the extent of his role, it’s been announced that he will appear in the show on April 21, 2025.
What LL Cool J’s Return Means for NCIS Season 22
A Familiar Face Across the Franchise
LL Cool J is no stranger to reprising his role within the NCIS universe. He previously appeared as a guest star on NCIS: Hawai’i during seasons 2 and 3. Although that spin-off was canceled after season 3, leaving the fate of its characters uncertain, LL Cool J has also popped up in the main NCIS series multiple times, most recently in 2023. Given his history of crossing between shows, his return isn’t unexpected.
His reappearance as Agent Hanna might provide some much-needed answers regarding the Pearl Harbor Field Office, including the status of Jane Tennant (played by Vanessa Lachey). His guest spot in season 22, episode 18, could incorporate plot elements from NCIS: Hawai’i season 4, potentially wrapping up unresolved storylines. While this may not satisfy all fans, it offers closure to that chapter and sets the stage for new adventures as Sam Hanna teams up with the NCIS squad for an as-yet-unknown mission.
Our Thoughts on LL Cool J’s Comeback to NCIS
Anticipate an Engaging Plot
Sam Hanna, portrayed by LL Cool J, is one of the franchise’s most recognizable and skilled agents, with a track record of crucial contributions to investigations. His return to NCIS suggests he will play a vital role in a case that demands his unique expertise. Since the details remain under wraps, fans will have to wait until his episode airs next month to discover the full scope and impact of his comeback.
