LL Cool J is back — and not just with malasadas. The NCIS: Los Angeles fan-favorite brought serious heat to the mothership when Sam Hanna resurfaced on NCIS following his NCIS: Hawai‘i crossover. But he didn’t just show up to assist with a case — Sam came armed with massive updates on our dearly missed L.A. team… and a mysterious new mission of his own.
🛑 A Shocking Career Pivot
Before Sam even walked into the big orange room, it was revealed:
🔥 Sam Hanna is no longer an NCIS agent.
After witnessing the brutal loss of his elite NCIS team in Hawai‘i, Sam requested a leave of absence, citing a need for a “change of pace.” But instead of lying low, Sam dove straight into the lion’s den — D.C. politics.
Now working the halls of Congress, he’s pitching critical military interventions to skeptical suits — which, naturally, leads to him exposing a corrupt defense contractor by episode’s end. Classic Sam.
👶 G Callen’s Baby Bombshell!
Fans got the sweetest surprise when Sam casually revealed that Callen and Anna Kolcheck are…
🍼 Expecting a baby!
“Not a lone wolf anymore,” Sam teased, as fans collectively swooned at the image of the once-reckless lone agent embracing fatherhood. Whether it’s a boy, girl, or mini-operative in training, one thing’s clear — NCIS: LA’s legacy is growing.
🍩 Sweet Nostalgia & a Hawaii Update
Sam didn’t come empty-handed. He arrived with homemade malasadas, thanks to a recipe courtesy of NCIS: Hawai‘i’s own Jane Tennant, whose daughter Julie is now 15, and son Alex is in college.
Oh, and yes, Sam baked. Maybe those retirement rumors weren’t entirely exaggerated?
👀 And What About Hetty?
Just when you thought the updates were over… Sam delivered the tease to end all teases.
He tells Vance he’s quitting Capitol Hill:
“I have some things I need to take care of first.”
To which Vance raises a knowing brow:
“That wouldn’t have anything to do with Hetty, would it? I’ve heard rumors she’s been spotted on the wrong side of a DMZ.”
Sam’s reply? A smirk, a wink, and the cryptic line:
“It’s probably better the less you know.”
Cue every NCIS: LA fan screaming, “HETTY’S OUT THERE!”
🔍 In Case You Missed It: The Morocco Cliffhanger
Back in the NCIS: LA series finale, Hetty’s shadow loomed large when Sam and Callen were summoned to Morocco — only to find Nell, Nate, Sabatino, and a new recruit (played by Chris O’Donnell’s real-life son!). Hetty had vanished again, leaving a trail of danger… and zero leads.
With Sam now seemingly on the hunt once more, is a spin-off or limited series in the works?
🌍 What’s Next for Sam?
No word yet on an official continuation, but one thing’s clear:
Sam Hanna’s story is far from over.
Whether it’s rescuing Hetty, rebuilding what was lost, or mentoring the next generation, he’s got unfinished business — and fans are ready for more.
