NCIS: Hawai’i is all set to begin production again and will seek traditional blessings before the series commences filming, just like it did for the previous two seasons. The series will also bring back LL Cool J, reprising his role as Sam Hanna in NCIS: Los Angeles, after the series ended its 14-season-long run earlier this year, according to Deadline. LL Cool J made a cameo appearance in the Season 2 finale back in May, setting the tone for his arrival in the spin-off in the upcoming season. The news comes ahead of the NCIS: Hawai’i’s Season 3 premiere which is set for February 12, next year.
NCIS: Hawai’i is the latest location-based spin-off from the NCIS universe. It premiered back in 2021 and became an instant fan favorite and a standout on CBS. The Hawai’i-based series follows Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant, the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor, and her team of Naval Crime Investigative Services members as they solve crimes, protect national security, and balance their duty to their families and the country. The second season of NCIS Hawai’i opened with a crossover that saw Jane joining other members of the mothership NCIS crew to stop a sinister plot by The Raven, who seeks to disrupt crucial global military exercises. While the Season 2 ratings were no match for the premiere season, it made a worthy entry to the series, earning the upcoming third season.
The NCIS universe is expanding once again – and this time, it’s bringing some serious firepower. With NCIS: Hawai’i officially back in production, fans are buzzing about one major surprise: LL Cool J is stepping into the tropical action, reprising his role as Sam Hanna from NCIS: Los Angeles. If you thought Hawai’i was hot before, just wait.
Aloha Action: What’s Happening With NCIS: Hawai’i?
Lights, Camera, Paradise – Filming Resumes
After a brief hiatus, the cameras are rolling once more in beautiful Hawai’i. The show’s third season promises more explosive drama, crime-solving brilliance, and a whole lot of heart. But the biggest headline? The crossover with NCIS: LA.
The Setting Remains Iconic
Set against the lush backdrop of Oahu, NCIS: Hawai’i has quickly made a name for itself. But don’t let the scenic beaches fool you — the show dives deep into serious crime, military cases, and fast-paced investigations.
LL Cool J’s Return: What It Means for the NCIS Franchise
From LA to the Islands – Sam Hanna’s New Chapter
LL Cool J, aka Sam Hanna, isn’t just dropping by for a cameo. He’s expected to take on a recurring role in Season 3, blending his gritty, no-nonsense energy with the Hawai’i team’s unique style.
Bridging Two Worlds
This move does more than shake up the cast — it strengthens the connection between NCIS: LA and NCIS: Hawai’i, building a richer, more interconnected universe for fans to explore.
A Legacy Character Reinvented
Hanna’s transition brings years of character development to the table. He’s not just another guest star — he’s a battle-tested vet with layers, stories, and connections that could turn the show on its head.
Inside Scoop: Behind-the-Scenes Buzz
Fan Reactions Are Off the Charts
Social media is exploding with excitement. From Twitter threads to Reddit speculation, fans are already theorizing how Sam Hanna’s presence will shake up team dynamics.
Cast Chemistry Is Fire
Word from the set is that LL Cool J fits right in with the cast. Expect sparks to fly — not just from the action scenes, but from the character interactions that drive the NCIS brand forward.
What’s Next for Jane Tennant and the Team?
A Leadership Dynamic in Flux
With Hanna’s military expertise and leadership style, it’ll be interesting to see how he gels — or clashes — with Jane Tennant (played by Vanessa Lachey). Two alphas, one high-stakes team.
New Challenges, New Threats
Season 3 is expected to bring more sophisticated villains and deeper conspiracies. With Sam onboard, the team has more tactical depth — and potentially, more enemies.
NCIS Universe Expands Yet Again
The Power of Crossovers
Let’s be honest: Crossovers are a ratings goldmine. But more than that, they give fans a sense of continuity and connection. Bringing Sam Hanna into NCIS: Hawai’i makes the universe feel real, lived-in, and evolving.
Could More Characters Join?
Don’t be shocked if more familiar faces pop up. With CBS investing heavily in the NCIS brand, other characters from NCIS, NCIS: LA, or even NCIS: New Orleans might drop by.
What the Producers Are Saying
Behind-the-Scenes Confidence
Producers have expressed excitement about the direction of the show. LL Cool J’s inclusion wasn’t a gimmick — it was a strategic decision to boost narrative depth and fan engagement.
More Stories to Tell
With Hanna’s backstory rich with operations, family drama, and personal loss, the writers have a ton of material to work with. Expect some emotional punches this season.
Where and When to Watch
Premiere Dates and Streaming Info
While CBS has yet to announce an exact premiere date for Season 3, expect a Fall 2025 debut. And yes — it’ll stream on Paramount+ as well, making it easier than ever to stay caught up.
The Impact of LL Cool J’s Star Power
LL Cool J Brings The Heat (Literally and Figuratively)
His charisma, presence, and loyal fan base elevate any project he touches. Having him in NCIS: Hawai’i? That’s a game-changer.
From Rap Icon to Crime-Fighting Legend
LL Cool J isn’t just a TV star — he’s a cultural icon. His music legacy, acting chops, and personal magnetism add serious flavor to the island drama.
Why This Move Makes Strategic Sense for CBS
Keeping The NCIS Brand Fresh
After two decades, CBS knows it must innovate. Adding legacy characters to newer franchises keeps things fresh while honoring the roots.
Boosting Viewer Engagement
Crossovers often lead to spikes in viewership and social engagement. CBS is tapping into that trend smartly by bringing fan-favorites into new storylines.
Will This Shake Up the Entire NCIS Universe?
Absolutely. The move opens doors for shared story arcs, multi-show villains, and massive crossover events. It’s not just a casting update — it’s a universe-altering decision.
Conclusion: Get Ready for an Unforgettable Season
Whether you’re a longtime fan of NCIS: LA or newly hooked on NCIS: Hawai’i, there’s no denying the buzz around LL Cool J’s return. With filming underway and a thrilling season ahead, now’s the perfect time to dive back into the action. The NCIS universe is evolving, and you won’t want to miss a second.
