Nearly 16 years after his first appearance in NCIS Season 6, Episode 22, LL Cool J’s Sam Hanna made a return to the flagship series in Season 22, Episode 18—this time, not as part of a crossover. The original two-part backdoor pilot for NCIS: Los Angeles introduced Sam Hanna alongside G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell) and Kensi Blye (Daniela Ruah). The spin-off went on to enjoy a 14-season run, bringing a unique twist to the franchise with its focus on undercover ops and cutting-edge surveillance out of the Office of Special Projects (OSP).
While NCIS: LA concluded in 2023, Sam’s story continued briefly on NCIS: Hawai’i, where he led a black-ops Elite Team. However, in a devastating two-part Season 3 finale, his team was ambushed and killed, leaving Sam as one of the only survivors. Unfortunately, the show’s abrupt cancellation left many storylines unresolved. Sam later reappeared in NCIS Season 22, where viewers learned he had stepped away from fieldwork to deal with the trauma, taking on a strategic role in Washington, D.C., advocating for military initiatives on Capitol Hill.
When the D.C. team needed a hand, Sam didn’t hesitate to jump back into action. By the end of the episode, he realized how much he missed the adrenaline of fieldwork. He tells Director Leon Vance that he’s resigning from his new desk job. Vance responds with a telling line: “The door’s always open.” Before parting ways with Tim McGee, Sam says, “Definitely see you around.” Here’s hoping that promise isn’t an empty one.
Sam Hanna Could Be a Seamless Addition to the D.C. Team
Given Sam is already based in Washington, D.C., it would be a natural progression for him to officially join the flagship NCIS team. His interactions in Season 22, Episode 18 show he already shares strong chemistry with the existing cast. He connects with forensic specialist Kasie Hines, bonds with medical examiner Jimmy Palmer, and shares camaraderie with seasoned agents like McGee and Nick Torres. His shared trauma with Jessica Knight, who also lost her former team, makes for another potential emotional arc.
Sam also brings a rare mix of seasoned authority, warmth, and physical strength that few others on the team possess. His rapport with McGee dates back to the original backdoor pilot, and his similarities with Torres—both being no-nonsense agents with soft sides—could spark a compelling dynamic. Notably, Sam and Alden Parker bond over their mutual love of baked goods, adding a humorous layer to the team chemistry.
An unexpectedly heartwarming relationship is the one Sam has built with Jimmy Palmer. Outside the office, they’ve developed a tradition of weekly karaoke sessions—with Jimmy’s daughter Victoria in tow. In a fun nod to LL Cool J’s music background, Jimmy raps old-school verses while Sam takes the lead vocals. Both men being single fathers raising children on their own adds depth to their friendship—an area ripe for further exploration.
LL Cool J’s Return Delivered What Longtime Fans Were Hoping For
While NCIS has leaned more on gunfights than martial arts action, Sam’s return brought back the physical intensity that was a staple in NCIS: LA. In a daring mission aboard a submarine, the team faces a no-fire zone due to flammable gas lines—setting the stage for one of the most action-heavy hand-to-hand combat sequences in NCIS history. The fight not only showcased Sam’s skills but even gave McGee a rare spotlight for physical combat. It was a refreshing throwback to the adrenaline-pumping scenes of NCIS: LA, and a reminder of what Sam brings to the table.
Could Sam Hanna Be a Full-Time Agent in Season 23?
So far, LL Cool J’s involvement in NCIS has been limited to a guest appearance in Season 22, Episode 18. However, the writers left his exit deliberately open-ended. Sam mentions needing to handle a few matters before potentially coming back, possibly alluding to unfinished business with Hetty Lange from the NCIS: LA finale.
In a chat with PEOPLE, LL Cool J made it clear that stepping back into Sam’s shoes felt natural. “I like the character—he’s beloved, and it’s a blast to play him. I don’t see why I wouldn’t return,” he said. Prior to this appearance, cast member Brian Dietzen (Jimmy Palmer) had called LL Cool J “a wonderful guest star” and “a fan favorite” in an interview with Collider.
With LL Cool J’s enthusiasm and the character’s popularity, a full-time role on NCIS Season 23 seems not only possible but ideal. As the series approaches its milestone 500th episode, adding Sam Hanna to the team would breathe fresh life into the long-running drama—while giving fans more of the action, heart, and heroism they’ve come to love.
