It’s been nearly two years since NCIS: Los Angeles took its final bow after 14 seasons, but one of its most iconic characters just can’t stay away. LL Cool J’s Sam Hanna has already crossed over to NCIS: Hawai’i as a recurring guest star, and now, he’s returning once again—this time to the flagship series on CBS’ 2025 TV schedule.
The cameo is exciting enough, but after hearing how warmly the cast welcomed him back, the real question is: could this be the start of something bigger? Could Sam Hanna actually become a full-time member of the D.C. team?
The Return of Sam Hanna
CBS recently dropped a first look at LL Cool J’s highly anticipated episode, teasing a case so complex that only Sam Hanna can help the Washington, D.C. team solve it. His return marks his first NCIS appearance since the epic three-show crossover in early 2023, and anticipation is sky-high.
In a sneak peek interview, NCIS star Katrina Law (Jessica Knight) couldn’t hide her excitement:
“He is so much fun. I really, truly enjoy having him here.”
Her co-star Sean Murray (Tim McGee) echoed the same energy:
“It’s just fun. New dynamics. I mean, LL, he’s fantastic.”
If set dynamics are any clue, LL Cool J brings an infectious spark whenever he steps into the NCIS universe.
Why Fans Want Him Full-Time
The idea of Sam Hanna trading in sunny Los Angeles for the D.C. bullpen is admittedly intriguing. For one, it would be unprecedented—no NCIS character has ever permanently transferred to another spinoff. Yet Sam has already proven he can fluidly move between shows, first joining Hawai’i after NCIS: LA’s cancellation and now linking up with the original team.
Beyond logistics, fans love the character. Sam embodies toughness, loyalty, and humanity, and his history with Gibbs’ team (from crossovers past) makes his presence feel seamless rather than forced. If the cast chemistry clicks as well as Law and Murray suggest, there’s no reason Sam couldn’t be written into a larger role.
The Reality Check: Scheduling and Legacy
Of course, there are obstacles. LL Cool J balances multiple careers as an actor, musician, and entrepreneur, which might make a long-term contract challenging. The star himself has never suggested he’d return to a full-time TV gig—but then again, his repeated willingness to reprise Sam Hanna suggests a soft spot for the role.
From a franchise perspective, making Sam a regular could be a ratings goldmine. NCIS has thrived for over two decades by reinventing itself with fresh faces while honoring its legacy. Adding a veteran from a spinoff could energize storylines while keeping longtime fans hooked.
A Possible New Era for NCIS
If LL Cool J were to step in more permanently, it could open doors to deeper character arcs. Imagine Sam navigating the politics of the D.C. office, mentoring Torres or Knight, or even clashing with Director Vance over unconventional methods. It would also create opportunities for callbacks to his NCIS: LA past, potentially even guest appearances from old colleagues like Callen (Chris O’Donnell).
Even if a full-time role doesn’t happen, fans can expect more crossovers. The franchise clearly values Sam Hanna—he’s the only NCIS: LA character to remain active across multiple shows post-cancellation, aside from Daniela Ruah’s surprise Kensi cameo in the 1,000th episode.
Conclusion: More Sam, Please
Whether or not LL Cool J officially joins the main cast, his presence in NCIS Season 23 proves that Sam Hanna still matters to the franchise—and to its fans. His episode will no doubt leave viewers wanting more, and if the cast’s glowing comments are any indication, the D.C. team wouldn’t mind making room for him at the bullpen table.
For now, we’ll take what we can get: Sam Hanna cracking cases, shaking up dynamics, and reminding us why he’s one of the most enduring characters in the NCIS universe.
