LL COOL J: Any place you put Sam Hanna, he will be Sam Hanna, that goes without saying. He’s always gonna be himself. That character has a certain point of view when he looks at the world. He protects those around him and he’s willing to risk his life to protect the people around him. That’s just who he is. In terms of being around new people, it’s just a completely and totally new experience. It’s fresh. I enjoyed my time on NCIS: L.A., and this is a wonderful new journey that Sam has embarked on. It’s great. I’m enjoying it. I’m having fun. They made me feel welcome.
Was it a no-brainer for you to continue playing this character? Were you immediately in to do this, or did you need a moment to think about whether you wanted to continue on with him? LL COOL J: I have fun playing San Hanna. There wasn’t really that much to debate on. Obviously, I have other things going on in my life, but that being said, I really enjoyed playing the character. It was fun. There was really no reason not to. I like to see things all the way through, and if they wanted the character to live on, I was like, “You know what? Let’s have some fun. Let’s do it.” I enjoy it. This has never been laborious for me. I’m having fun.
LL COOL J Isn’t Slowing Down Anytime Soon
When LL COOL J, born James Todd Smith, announced his return to the NCIS franchise—this time in NCIS: Hawai’i—fans everywhere had one big question: what’s next for Sam Hanna? After more than a decade on NCIS: Los Angeles, the rapper-turned-actor is trading California’s coastlines for the tropical breeze of Oahu. But according to LL himself, it’s a new location, not a new Sam.
So what does this really mean? Is NCIS: Hawai’i about to get a serious dose of action, swagger, and wisdom? Spoiler: Yes. Let’s dive deep into what LL COOL J’s move means for the franchise, the fans, and Sam Hanna himself.
A Big Move to the Islands — What Sparked It?
NCIS: Los Angeles Was Just the Beginning
LL COOL J joined NCIS: LA in 2009 and instantly made Sam Hanna a fan favorite. With his military background, loyalty, and street-smart charm, Sam was the heart of the show’s elite team.
But with NCIS: Los Angeles ending after 14 seasons, many believed they’d seen the last of him.
Surprise Cameo Turned Full-Time Role
In a move no one saw coming, LL COOL J made a surprise guest appearance in the Season 2 finale of NCIS: Hawai’i. That cameo? It was more than fan service—it was a sneak peek at what’s next. Not long after, CBS confirmed he’d be joining the cast in a recurring role for Season 3.
LL COOL J Speaks Out: “It’s the Same Sam Hanna”
No Character Reinvention—Just Evolution
In a recent interview, LL COOL J addressed the transition head-on. His words were clear: “It’s a new location, but the same Sam.”
He’s not changing the core of who Sam Hanna is. Instead, we’ll see him adapt to a new environment—new allies, new cases, and new dynamics—but with the same integrity, toughness, and wit.
LL COOL J on Why He Returned
So, why come back?
“The character means something to people. And there’s more story to tell,” LL said.
He also hinted that the collaboration with NCIS: Hawai’i offered fresh creative energy—and the fans had a big say in it too. Social media exploded when he appeared on the show, making it clear: they want more Sam Hanna.
What Sam Hanna Brings to NCIS: Hawai’i
Tactical Brilliance with a Human Side
Sam isn’t just muscle—he’s strategy, intuition, and leadership rolled into one. His Navy SEAL past gives him authority, while his compassion makes him relatable.
A Mentor Figure for the Team
Expect Sam to bring wisdom and guidance to the NCIS: Hawai’i crew. His experience could reshape how the team approaches their toughest cases.
Action, Baby—And Plenty of It
You can’t bring Sam Hanna into a show and not expect epic action scenes. Whether it’s hand-to-hand combat, high-speed chases, or interrogation room intensity, he’s sure to deliver.
How Hawai’i Changes the Game
New Culture, New Vibes
Hawai’i isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character in itself. The island’s culture, environment, and unique challenges will shape the tone of the new season.
Dealing with Island-Specific Crimes
From deep-sea smuggling to eco-terrorism, Hawai’i’s setting offers fresh plotlines that couldn’t be done in L.A. Sam will be stepping into unfamiliar waters—literally.
Behind the Scenes: Cast Chemistry & Show Direction
The Cast Welcomes LL COOL J
Vanessa Lachey, who plays Jane Tennant, expressed excitement about working with LL COOL J. The cast’s dynamic is expected to be tighter, sharper, and more electric than ever.
New Directors, Same Gritty Tone
Showrunners promise that while NCIS: Hawai’i will embrace its paradise setting, it won’t shy away from the gritty, high-stakes storytelling fans love.
LL COOL J’s Legacy On-Screen and Off
From Rap Icon to Acting Powerhouse
Let’s not forget—LL COOL J is a cultural force. From Mama Said Knock You Out to hosting Lip Sync Battle, he’s done it all. And through it all, he’s built a legacy that transcends genre.
Giving Back Through the Role
LL’s commitment goes beyond acting. He often uses his platform to speak on veterans’ issues, youth programs, and representation. Sam Hanna reflects that sense of purpose.
What to Expect in NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3
Deeper Character Arcs
Word on the street? Sam won’t just pop in for the action—he’ll have emotional depth, possibly even exploring unresolved past traumas or long-lost connections.
Crossovers Could Get Bigger
Now that Sam’s in Hawai’i, don’t be surprised if other NCIS characters show up too. Imagine a Gibbs cameo or NCIS: Sydney tie-in. It’s not off the table.
Fan Reactions Have Been Wild
Twitter Went Off the Charts
The moment LL appeared in NCIS: Hawai’i, Twitter exploded. Fans tweeted memes, throwbacks, and calls for him to become a regular. CBS listened.
The LL COOL J Effect
Every franchise needs a spark. LL’s presence brings a confidence, a fan base, and a cool factor that other procedural dramas simply don’t have.
Will Sam Hanna Stay Long-Term?
CBS Is Watching Closely
So far, LL COOL J is set as a recurring character. But insiders suggest if ratings spike—and they likely will—a full-time role could happen.
LL COOL J Is Open to It
In multiple interviews, he hasn’t ruled out becoming a permanent cast member. If the story’s right and the fans want it? He’s all in.
Comparing NCIS LA vs NCIS Hawai’i
Grittier vs. Breezier
LA was urban, dark, and often politically complex. Hawai’i leans more into tropical tones and modern crime-tech storytelling. Sam Hanna is the perfect bridge between those worlds.
The Common Thread Is Loyalty
No matter where he is, Sam’s defining trait is loyalty—something fans see in LL COOL J himself. That authenticity translates on screen, and it’s why people care about this character.
What This Move Means for NCIS Universe
Expanding the Brand
With Sam’s move, NCIS proves it’s not afraid to blend storylines and evolve. It keeps the universe fresh without losing what makes it work.
Legacy + Innovation = Winning Formula
Bringing back a beloved character into a fresh setting isn’t just smart—it’s emotional gold for viewers who’ve grown up with the franchise.
Conclusion: Same Sam, Bold New Chapter
LL COOL J’s move to NCIS: Hawai’i isn’t just about ratings or reinvention—it’s about continuing a story that still matters. Sam Hanna has always been a pillar in the NCIS world. Now, he gets to bring that same strength to a new team, a new location, and a whole new chapter.
So yeah, it’s a different vibe in paradise. But as LL said, “It’s the same Sam.” And that’s exactly what fans want.
