While NCIS: Los Angeles came to its conclusion after 14 seasons, that’s not the end for Sam Hanna (LL COOL J), as he makes his way over to NCIS: Hawai’i as a recurring guest star for Season 3. In the premiere, Special Agent in Charge Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey) had to contend with Sam being the one to have to sign off on her return to work. Anyone familiar with Sam Hanna knows that he is uniquely qualified at understanding what it’s like when work bleeds over into the personal, and you have to handle the tricky balance between duty to country and your family. It will be an interesting adventure to see how Sam will both challenge and support Tennant and her team when he pops up this season.
During this interview with Collider, LL COOL J talked about why he wasn’t done playing Sam Hanna, his character’s unique point of view, having new adventures within the NCIS franchise, putting his heart and soul into everything he does, what most impresses him about Lachey, how the funniest moment in the Season 3 premiere came about, and being a big believer in the fact that dreams don’t have deadlines.
LL COOL J Is Bringing the Heat to ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ Like Never Before
If you thought you knew Sam Hanna, think again. LL COOL J just dropped a bombshell about his return to the NCIS universe—this time in the sun-soaked backdrop of NCIS: Hawai’i. But don’t expect the same old version of his character. According to the multi-talented star, fans are in for a wild ride as his portrayal evolves in surprising and deeply personal ways.
From L.A. to the Islands: A Major Shift for Sam Hanna
Why Hawaii Changes Everything
LL COOL J’s transition from NCIS: Los Angeles to NCIS: Hawai’i is more than just a change of scenery. It’s a reinvention. Picture this: the same tough agent we’ve followed for years—but now dropped into unfamiliar territory, with new allies, new enemies, and a new mission.
LL COOL J Speaks on the Transformation
In a recent interview, LL COOL J revealed,
“You’re going to see different sides of Sam Hanna. He’s not just the guy with a badge anymore—there’s vulnerability, tension, even humor you haven’t seen before.”
The Psychology Behind the Change
Exploring Deeper Layers
LL COOL J emphasized that NCIS: Hawai’i gives room to dig into Sam Hanna’s psyche. It’s not just about action sequences and busting bad guys anymore. This time, it’s personal.
Emotional Depth & Real Stakes
The emotional undercurrents in this new chapter allow LL COOL J to flex his dramatic muscles. Whether it’s unresolved grief, survivor’s guilt, or questioning his future, Hanna is evolving—and fast.
Action + Emotion = Next-Level Storytelling
Still Packed With Explosions—Just More Grounded
Fans don’t have to worry about losing the action-packed thrills. LL COOL J promises plenty of high-stakes scenes, only now, they’re grounded in character-driven storytelling.
Drama With a Pulse
Think of it like this: it’s not just shootouts and takedowns anymore. Each fight, chase, and interrogation carries emotional weight—like chapters in a deeply personal novel.
Sam Hanna in New Territory
Clash of Cultures, Clash of Characters
The island’s unique culture and team dynamics challenge Hanna in ways L.A. never did. He’s not the big dog anymore. He’s got to earn trust and figure out where he fits.
Team Chemistry Gets a Shake-Up
How does a seasoned NCIS veteran mesh with Hawai’i’s crew? Expect sparks—some good, some explosive.
LL COOL J’s Real-Life Perspective Bleeds Through
Life Experience as Creative Fuel
LL COOL J brings more than acting chops—he brings lived experience. The rapper-turned-actor knows what it means to wear multiple hats, juggle identity, and fight for purpose—just like Sam Hanna.
A Masterclass in Character Evolution
He’s not winging it. LL COOL J approaches his role with surgical precision, diving into psychology, backstory, and motivation with the skill of a seasoned pro.
What This Means for the Show’s Tone
More Nuance, More Range
NCIS: Hawai’i isn’t just about paradise backdrops anymore. With LL COOL J in the mix, expect tonal shifts—from light-hearted team banter to gritty, emotional arcs.
Unexpected Twists Incoming
LL COOL J hinted that his character’s arc includes big surprises.
“I can’t say too much, but let’s just say some episodes will hit different. Real different.”
Fan Reactions Are Already Buzzing
Social Media’s Loving It
Since LL COOL J’s announcement, platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram have exploded with excitement. Fans are thrilled to see a familiar face take on unfamiliar challenges.
Representation and Realness
Many viewers applaud the show for allowing a Black character to show emotional range—not just toughness.
What’s Next for Sam Hanna?
Possible Storylines to Watch
Will Sam confront past traumas? Could he face betrayal? Maybe even love? LL COOL J is staying tight-lipped—but the teases are enough to get fans theorizing wildly.
Conflict, Identity, and Redemption
A Man Rebuilding Himself
Underneath the badge and bravado, Sam Hanna is a man trying to figure out who he is now. And LL COOL J is all in on telling that story with brutal honesty.
Why This Version of Sam Hanna Matters
Character Growth That Feels Real
Audiences are tired of one-dimensional heroes. LL COOL J’s updated portrayal offers what viewers crave—growth, struggle, and ultimately, triumph.
How LL COOL J Plans to Keep It Fresh
Constant Reinvention
By collaborating closely with writers and directors, LL COOL J ensures that Sam Hanna never gets stale.
“You gotta evolve, or you fade,” he says.
LL COOL J Is Just Getting Started
Despite years in the game, LL COOL J treats this role like it’s his first big break. He’s hungry, he’s sharp, and he’s determined to leave a lasting legacy—again.
Conclusion: A Game-Changing Return for a Fan-Favorite
LL COOL J’s return to NCIS: Hawai’i isn’t just fan service—it’s storytelling with soul. With a character that’s deeper, more dynamic, and more human than ever, he’s ready to flip the script. This isn’t just another chapter—it’s a whole new book. So if you think you know Sam Hanna… think again.
5 Unique FAQs
Q1: How different is LL COOL J’s character on NCIS: Hawai’i compared to NCIS: Los Angeles?
A: Expect a more introspective and emotionally vulnerable side of Sam Hanna, with deeper character development.
Q2: Will there be crossover episodes between NCIS: Hawai’i and other NCIS shows?
A: While nothing is confirmed, LL COOL J hinted at the possibility, which has fans buzzing.
Q3: Does LL COOL J have a bigger creative role in this version of Sam Hanna?
A: Yes, he’s reportedly more involved in shaping his character’s arc and tone this time around.
Q4: How many episodes will LL COOL J appear in for NCIS: Hawai’i?
A: That hasn’t been officially confirmed, but insiders suggest it’s a recurring role with potential to expand.
Q5: Is NCIS: Hawai’i a good entry point for new viewers unfamiliar with the franchise?
A: Absolutely! With fresh storylines and revamped characters like Sam Hanna, it’s perfect for both longtime fans and newcomers.
