Fans of the NCIS universe were in for a treat when former agent Sam Hanna returned to the series — and he didn’t come empty-handed. LL Cool J reprised his role from NCIS: Los Angeles, delivering updates on his old team while dropping a tantalizing hint about the ever-mysterious Hetty Lange.
Sam’s New Role and Life Outside NCIS
After witnessing the devastation of his NCIS Elite team during a NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3 crossover, Sam requested a leave of absence from the agency. He told the team he needed “a change of pace,” trading fieldwork for politics: he’s now working in D.C., advocating for critical military interventions to Congress. While his efforts may seem bureaucratic, Sam’s skills ensure that even obstinate lawmakers don’t slip past his radar — especially when corruption is involved.
Life Updates for the NCIS Team
While catching up with his former colleagues, Sam shared several personal and professional updates:
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G. Callen: No longer the lone wolf, Sam revealed that Callen and his wife Anna are expecting a baby.
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Jane Tennant’s Family: The Pearl Harbor SAC’s son Alex is in college, and daughter Julie is now 15. Jane even shared her recipe for malasadas, which Sam used to surprise pastry enthusiast Alden Parker.
Hetty Lange Remains Enigmatic
Just when viewers thought they’d get closure on Hetty, Sam dropped a classic Lange-style tease. When asked by Director Vance about rumors of Hetty being spotted near a DMZ, Sam replied with his signature wry smile:
“It’s probably better the less you know.”
Her ongoing absence continues to fuel speculation, keeping the legendary Operations Manager’s mystique alive.
What Happened After the NCIS: LA Finale?
Back in the series finale of NCIS: Los Angeles, Hetty had sent Sam and Callen plane tickets to Morocco for a “small side project.” Once there, they encountered familiar faces — Nell (Renee Felice Smith), Nate (Peter Cambor), Sabatino (Erik Palladino), and a new agent played by Chris O’Donnell’s real-life son, Chip.
As Nell explained,
“Hetty got herself into a bit of a pickle, and I’m here to get her out.”
However, the team soon found themselves embroiled in unexpected challenges — literally “up to their elbows in alligators” — with Hetty’s exact location still unknown.
Hetty Lange remains as enigmatic as ever, and Sam’s return proves that her story — and her influence — continues to ripple throughout the NCIS universe. Fans will have to stay tuned to see if her next appearance finally brings answers… or just more mystery.
