NCIS: Hawai’i season 3 reveals new details about Sam Hanna’s (LL Cool J) return. The series premiered on CBS in 2021, and follows members of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service operating out of Pearl Harbor. The cast of NCIS: Hawai’i includes Vanessa Lachey, Alex Tarrant, Noah Mills, Jason Antoon, Yasmine Al-Bustami, Enver Gjokaj, and Tori Anderson. Cool J previously starred in the long-running NCIS spinoff Los Angeles, where he portrayed Hanna, an agent for the Office of Special Projects. After taking part in the crossover event, and briefly appearing in the NCIS: Hawai’i season 2 finale, it was confirmed back in May that Cool J would reprise his NCIS role for upcoming episodes.
Ahead of NCIS: Hawai’i season 3, scheduled to debut on February 12, 2024, CBS is revealing the summary of its first episode, which offers more details about Hanna’s return. According to TV Line, the premiere, titled “Run and Gun,” will bring Hanna and Jane Tennant (Lachey) back together, and Cool J’s character will determine her ability to rejoin the team, following the events of season 2’s finale. Read the official synopsis below: “‘Run and Gun’ (Part 1) – After passing her medical and psych evaluations, Tennant is surprised to see Sam Hanna (NCIS’ Los Angeles’ LL Cool J) conducting her final interview to clear her return to work. Also, when the team discovers a breach in the U.S. Marshal’s database, Sam joins Tennant in Las Vegas to locate the hacker.”
When NCIS: Hawaii Season 3 teased Sam Hanna’s return, fans across the NCIS universe collectively gasped. It’s not every day a veteran from the flagship NCIS: Los Angeles makes a dramatic reentry—especially not on the beaches of Oahu. But now it’s official: LL Cool J is back as Sam Hanna, and the ripple effect is massive.
So, what does this mean for the team in Hawaii? And how will this game-changing twist impact future crossovers? Let’s break it all down.
The Legacy of Sam Hanna in NCIS Universe
Who Is Sam Hanna, Really?
Sam Hanna isn’t just another agent. He’s a former Navy SEAL, a father, a mentor, and the heartbeat of NCIS: Los Angeles for 14 incredible seasons. Known for his sharp instincts, fierce loyalty, and tactical skills, Sam is the guy you want in your corner when things go sideways.
His Impact on the NCIS Brand
He’s helped shape the franchise. Hanna’s character added depth, soul, and street-smart charisma that resonated with millions. His dynamic with G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell) was iconic—pure bromance gold.
Why Bring Sam Hanna to NCIS: Hawaii?
A Fresh Chapter Without Letting Go of the Past
NCIS: Hawaii is still finding its unique rhythm, and introducing Sam Hanna gives it more weight. It blends nostalgia with novelty, opening the door to deeper storytelling and fan-service moments.
Fan Service or Strategic Move?
Let’s be honest—this isn’t just a sentimental decision. LL Cool J’s return is strategic. He boosts ratings, expands demographics, and bridges two fan bases. It’s a genius move by CBS.
When Did Sam Hanna Reappear?
The Big Reveal in the NCIS: Hawaii Finale
Sam made a surprise cameo in the Season 2 finale of NCIS: Hawaii. Fans who thought he was gone for good got a juicy tease of what was to come. Now in Season 3, he’s back full-time.
First Impressions Count
His debut wasn’t just a walk-on. He entered guns blazing—literally—helping Jane Tennant’s team in a high-stakes mission. Classic Hanna move.
How Sam Hanna’s Return Changes the Dynamic
What It Means for Jane Tennant’s Leadership
Jane Tennant is a force. But bringing in someone like Hanna means she’ll have to adjust. There’s mutual respect, but tension’s inevitable—and that’s good drama.
Mentor or Maverick?
Will Sam play mentor to younger agents? Or will he ruffle feathers with his old-school methods? So far, it looks like a bit of both.
New Energy, New Conflicts
The Chemistry with Kai Holman and Jesse Boone
Sam has started bonding with Jesse, and there’s some friction with Kai. It’s clear that while he’s respected, he’s also intimidating to the newer agents. Expect banter, arguments, and eventually—camaraderie.
Crossover Possibilities Just Exploded
Could This Be the Start of an NCIS Mega-Verse?
The writers are opening up possibilities for future crossovers—maybe even full-blown events with NCIS, NCIS: LA flashbacks, or Gibbs cameos (fingers crossed).
H3: More Than a Cameo—This Is Integration
Sam’s not just popping in; he’s embedded in the team. That means deeper arcs, emotional investment, and long-term storylines.
Behind the Scenes: How LL Cool J Came Back
The Actor’s Excitement
LL Cool J confirmed the news on social media, saying he “couldn’t pass up the chance to suit up again.” He’s clearly pumped—and the fans are, too.
CBS’s Grand Strategy
CBS knows the power of nostalgia. By reviving beloved characters in new settings, they breathe fresh life into existing series while keeping long-time viewers hooked.
What We Know About Hanna’s Storyline in Season 3
A Mysterious Threat Tied to His Past
Early episodes hint that Sam is chasing shadows from his past—an enemy possibly connected to his SEAL days. It’s personal. And it’s dangerous.
Balancing Personal and Professional
Sam’s always struggled with keeping work separate from home. Season 3 is no different. There’s emotional weight to his return, especially as he connects with the Hawaii team.
Will Callen Make an Appearance Too?
Fans Are Begging for It
With Sam back, the next logical step? G. Callen. Rumors are swirling, and fans are hopeful. If CBS wants to go viral again—they know what to do.
How This Impacts NCIS: Hawaii’s Future
Boosting the Show’s Appeal
Let’s face it—NCIS: Hawaii needed a jolt. Sam Hanna provides just that. Expect higher ratings, more buzz, and possibly, a longer run for the series.
Stronger Identity for the Hawaii Team
Sam’s presence doesn’t overshadow the main cast. If anything, it strengthens them. Jane, Kai, Lucy, and Jesse all get more layers through their interactions with him.
Fan Reactions Have Been Explosive
Social Media Went Wild
Twitter, Reddit, and fan forums blew up when Sam returned. Memes, reaction videos, and fan theories are spreading like wildfire.
Critics Are On Board Too
Even critics agree: this was a brilliant move. The writing is sharper, the stakes are higher, and the drama is more gripping than ever.
Where Does NCIS Go From Here?
A Possible Franchise Renaissance
Sam Hanna’s return might be the spark that reignites the NCIS franchise. With other spin-offs rumored and legacy characters available, the sky’s the limit.
Conclusion: The Return We Didn’t Know We Needed
Sam Hanna’s reappearance in NCIS: Hawaii Season 3 isn’t just nostalgic fan bait—it’s a strategic, emotional, and thrilling addition that injects new life into the series. With legacy weight and fresh tension, Hanna’s presence has elevated the show, reconnected it with the broader NCIS universe, and left fans hungry for more.
One thing’s for sure: NCIS: Hawaii will never be the same again.
