From originally being a spin-off of JAG, NCIS has long surpassed its predecessor and become its own franchise. The first spin-off, NCIS: Los Angeles, was introduced with a two-part backdoor pilot in NCIS Season 6 Episodes 22 and 23, “Legend.” The episodes saw the debut of Chris O’Donnell’s G. Callen, Daniela Ruah’s Kensi Blye, Peter Cambor’s Nate Getz, and LL Cool J’s Sam Hanna, who went on to lead NCIS: LA Season 1. Although Cambor was limited to a recurring role in Season 2 and onwards, O’Donnell, Ruah, and LL Cool J continued as the main stars for 323 episodes spread across 14 seasons before NCIS: LA was canceled. While most of the main characters’ stories were given a satisfying conclusion in NCIS: LA Season 14 Episodes 20 and 21, “New Beginnings,” the series finale teased that Sam’s story would continue in NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3. That’s the beauty of having so many spin-offs set in the same universe and timeline.
LL Cool J joined NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3 in a recurring guest role, as Sam would help out Jane Tennant’s (Vanessa Lachey) team from time to time, while he was also starting up NCIS ELITE — Elevated Logics Intelligence and Tactics (apparently, the last “E” is silent) — a squad to deal with dangerous, top-secret missions. However, in NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3, Episode 9, “Spill the Tea,” the ELITE members were trapped in an airlock room and exposed to a deadly toxin while Sam couldn’t do anything but watch. While he avenged them in the next episode, it was also the NCIS: Hawai’i series finale as the show ended up getting canceled. Due to the abrupt cancellation, the series ended on a cliffhanger, while Sam’s storyline was left in the wind. Thankfully, the NCIS creative team found a way to include him for a guest role in NCIS Season 22. In just one episode (that wasn’t part of a crossover), Sam perfectly fit with the NCIS team, proving why he should join them officially. But if he isn’t, there’s a lot of room to continue Sam’s journey in a potential NCIS limited series, similar to NCIS: Tony & Ziva.
In the ever-expanding NCIS universe, there are few characters as iconic, grounded, and fan-favorite-worthy as Sam Hanna. Played by the charismatic LL Cool J, Sam has become the heart and soul of NCIS: Los Angeles over the years. Now that NCIS: LA has wrapped and whispers suggest Sam won’t be transitioning to another NCIS show, it begs the question:
Why doesn’t Sam Hanna have his own limited series yet?
Let’s break down the buzz, the potential, and why this isn’t just a wish—it’s a call for justice.
Why Sam Hanna Deserves the Spotlight
A Legacy That Speaks Volumes
Sam isn’t just another action hero. He’s a former Navy SEAL, a family man, a moral compass, and a rock-solid team player. He’s lived through more danger and heartache than most characters in TV land, and yet, he’s always balanced strength with empathy.
LL Cool J’s Star Power Still Burns Bright
Let’s be real—LL Cool J is TV royalty. His portrayal of Sam Hanna brought depth, wit, and swagger that few procedural characters ever achieve. He’s not just a sidekick. He’s the guy people tune in to watch. So why not give him the center stage?
What a Sam Hanna Limited Series Could Look Like
Think ‘Jack Ryan’ Meets ‘The Equalizer’
A limited series starring Sam Hanna could blend international espionage, gritty realism, and emotional storytelling. Think covert missions, shady intel, and ticking clocks—all led by a man we already trust to get the job done.
Real Stakes. Real Action. Real Character.
Sam’s experience offers the chance to tell more mature, morally complex stories. No more formulaic cases. Let’s dive into the psychology of a man who’s seen it all and still puts others before himself.
How the NCIS Universe Would Benefit
Crossovers? Yes, Please
With a Sam Hanna series, you open the door for crossover episodes—bringing in old friends from NCIS: LA, or even Gibbs (we can dream, right?). This would revive the energy in the franchise.
Spinoff Success = Franchise Longevity
Limited series are all the rage—just ask Marvel, Star Wars, or Yellowstone. A Sam Hanna miniseries could breathe new life into the NCIS brand without stretching it thin.
Character-Driven Storylines People Crave
Exploring Grief, Loyalty, and Duty
Sam’s story doesn’t need to be just about explosions and shootouts. His emotional depth allows writers to explore loss, brotherhood, and healing. It’s not just what he does—it’s why he does it.
Room to Dive Deeper
Fans barely scratched the surface of Sam’s background. What about his early SEAL missions? His time undercover? There’s a goldmine of untold stories waiting.
The Streaming Era Is Made for Characters Like Sam
Limited Series = Bigger Impact
Gone are the days of 24-episode seasons. A 6 to 8-episode arc gives us tight pacing, high-stakes drama, and cinematic quality. Perfect for a high-impact character like Sam.
Global Appeal
LL Cool J isn’t just a U.S. name—he’s globally recognized. Combine that with a smart, stylish series and you’ve got yourself a worldwide hit waiting to happen.
Fan Demand Is Loud and Clear
Social Media Is Buzzing
Just search “Sam Hanna” and you’ll see a storm of fans demanding more. People aren’t ready to say goodbye—and they shouldn’t have to.
Petitions and Fan Theories
There are already fan petitions, Reddit threads, and countless YouTube videos speculating on Sam’s future. It’s time the network listened.
What Would Make This Series Unique?
Realistic Storytelling With Grit
Give us a series grounded in real-world conflicts—no sci-fi, no fluff, just raw, compelling drama with heart.
Diversity That Feels Natural
Sam Hanna represents a powerful Black lead in a genre dominated by clichés. His voice matters—and it resonates.
Episode Ideas for a Sam Hanna Series
Episode 1: The Silent Briefing
Sam is pulled back into the field after a missing SEAL mission goes dark in Eastern Europe.
Episode 2: Ghost Protocol
A former teammate believed dead resurfaces, asking for Sam’s help in uncovering a corrupt arms network.
Episode 3: Family Ties
Sam’s daughter is targeted, pulling him into a deadly game with political consequences.
Episode 4: The Betrayal Code
An operation goes sideways, and Sam must decide between loyalty to an old friend and protecting innocent lives.
Episode 5: The Extraction
The season finale: Sam leads a black-ops mission to rescue civilians from a terrorist compound—pushing him to the edge emotionally and physically.
Why Networks Should Say YES
Built-In Audience
This isn’t a risk—it’s a reward waiting to happen. Millions already love the character and the actor. All the pieces are in place.
Award Potential
With the right writing team, this limited series could snag Emmy nominations. Yes, we said it.
Final Thoughts: It’s Time to Give Sam His Due
Sam Hanna is more than just a supporting character. He’s a hero, a leader, and a role model. He’s got stories worth telling and fans begging to see them.
If he’s not joining the main NCIS show, then let’s give him the spotlight he deserves.
