Sam Hanna’s surprise return to NCIS delivered far more than pastries. The former NCIS: Los Angeles agent (LL Cool J) dropped several major updates that felt like the Season 15 fans never got — including a fresh mystery surrounding Hetty.
First bombshell: Sam is no longer an NCIS agent. After witnessing the massacre of his NCIS ELITE team during the NCIS: Hawai‘i Season 3 crossover, Sam took a leave of absence, seeking “a change of pace.” These days, he’s been working in Washington, attempting to convince stubborn politicians to back critical — but unpopular — military operations.
Sam also shared life updates from the LA crew. Callen is “not a lone wolf anymore,” with Anna and a baby on the way. Jane Tennant’s kids are growing up fast, and yes — Sam even learned to bake malasadas.
But the biggest tease came at the end. Sam hinted he’s leaving D.C. to “take care of something,” prompting Vance to ask the obvious question: Hetty. Sam’s response? A knowing wink — and yet another reminder that Hetty Lange’s story is far from over.