Even though NCIS: Los Angeles concluded its 14-season run in 2023, the show’s legacy is far from over. One of its most iconic characters, Sam Hanna (played by LL Cool J), has officially re-entered the NCIS universe — and fans couldn’t be more excited.
After briefly appearing in NCIS: Hawai‘i, Sam made a surprising solo comeback in NCIS Season 22, Episode 18. No longer part of the Hawai‘i team following a tragic ambush that left him one of the few survivors, Sam is now based in Washington, D.C., working on Capitol Hill. However, when the NCIS team needed his help, he jumped back into action — proving he still has what it takes.
The episode not only gave us the most extended fight sequence in NCIS history, but also teased Sam’s potential return to the agency full-time. By the end of the episode, he tells Director Vance he’s ready to quit his Capitol Hill job, opening the door for a possible long-term role on the D.C. team.
With hints of unfinished business, including the lingering mystery around Hetty Lange, Sam’s story clearly isn’t finished. Whether he rejoins the agency in Season 23 or pops up in another spinoff, one thing’s certain: fans are ready to see more of Sam Hanna.
