LL Cool J is officially stepping back into action as Special Agent Sam Hanna in an upcoming episode of NCIS, further cementing his legacy within the ever-growing franchise.
Best known for his longtime role on NCIS: Los Angeles, which wrapped up its run in 2023 after 14 seasons, LL Cool J has remained a fan-favorite across the NCIS universe. His return follows a surprise appearance on NCIS: Hawai’i, where he reprised his role in the Season 2 finale and continued as a recurring guest star in Season 3.
Now, the franchise is bringing Hanna back once more—this time to the flagship NCIS series. While plot details are still under wraps, fans can expect the character’s return to be meaningful and action-packed, as always.
The move reflects CBS’s ongoing efforts to interconnect the various NCIS shows, giving beloved characters like Hanna opportunities to appear across multiple storylines and locations. Executive producers have hinted that the character may play a key role in upcoming missions that tie into past arcs, especially given his wealth of experience and connections throughout the agency.
LL Cool J (real name James Todd Smith) has spoken openly about his love for the character and his gratitude to fans. “Sam Hanna has been a huge part of my life for over a decade,” he said in a previous interview. “Every time I step into his shoes, it feels like coming home.”
With NCIS continuing to dominate in ratings and with several spinoffs still active or in development, Hanna’s return comes at an exciting time for the franchise.
An official airdate for LL Cool J’s next appearance as Sam Hanna has not yet been announced, but fans can expect more details in the coming weeks.
