Surprise – Sam Hanna’s coming back! While we all thought that we saw the last of LL Cool J in the NCIS franchise after the NCIS: Los Angeles series finale, we were (thankfully) wrong. Is LL Cool J going to NCIS: Hawai’i? Here’s what the actor’s involvement will look like in Season 3. NCIS: Los Angeles officially ended with an emotional Season 14 finale on May 21, 2023. The show was the initial spin-off of NCIS and followed the Office of Special Projects (OSP) in Los Angeles which specialized in undercover assignments and apprehending dangerous criminals. Starring LL Cool J and Chris O’Donnell, the show premiered in September 2009 and aired for 14 years. NCIS: LA was the fifth longest-running CBS primetime scripted series but was cancelled by CBS in 2023 (likely due to the hefty costs associated with making the show).
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight in February 2023, LL Cool J said that it wasn’t hard to wrap up the show after more than a decade. “Well, I gotta tell you it’s not hard at all,” he stated. “CBS did an amazing thing with us; it’s been an amazing run. We talking about 14 years. We not talking about two-and-a-half, three years and ‘Oh it was fun while it lasted.’ This was 14 years.” The former NCIS: LA star continued: “So, I think that the show has done tremendous numbers. I mean, our last [NCIS] crossover did tremendous numbers.” On January 9, 2023, the NCIS franchise aired a three-show crossover with NCIS, NCIS: LA and NCIS: Hawai’i. “I couldn’t complain, I have nothing. All I could say is, ‘Wow, what a ride,’ you know what I’m saying?”
LL Cool J was also asked about an invitation from Lachey to join her spin-off, NCIS: Hawai’i. “I’ll definitely keep that invitation in mind, Vanessa, and you never know. We’ll see what happens. Maybe I’ll come play a little bit, we’ll see,” he teased. “Anything is possible.”
You’ve seen the headlines. You’ve scrolled past the teasers. But the real question fans are dying to know is: Is LL Cool J joining NCIS: Hawai’i full time? The legendary rapper-turned-actor, who’s long been a fan favorite as Sam Hanna on NCIS: Los Angeles, made a surprise appearance in NCIS: Hawai’i that left viewers buzzing. So, let’s break it down. What’s really going on with LL Cool J and his potential move to paradise? And how often can we expect to see the cool and calm Sam Hanna in action?
Who Is LL Cool J? A Quick Refresher for the Newbies
From Rap Royalty to TV Icon
Let’s not forget—LL Cool J is a hip-hop pioneer. With hits like “Mama Said Knock You Out” and “Doin’ It,” he’s been in the music game since the ’80s. But what really cemented his place in pop culture? His smooth transition to television, especially as Special Agent Sam Hanna in NCIS: Los Angeles.
His Impact on the NCIS Universe
Sam Hanna isn’t just a sidekick—he’s a core player in the NCIS franchise. Cool, confident, and a certified action hero, he brought a mix of heart and heat to NCIS: LA for over a decade. When that show ended, fans weren’t ready to say goodbye.
The Surprise Appearance That Shocked Fans
The Season Finale That Started It All
Remember the Season 2 finale of NCIS: Hawai’i? Yeah, that one. It was the crossover event that had jaws dropping when Sam Hanna showed up unexpectedly to help the team out of a tough situation. Twitter exploded. Reddit went wild. And fans were left asking: Is this a one-time thing?
H2: Was It Just Fan Service or a Soft Launch?
Let’s be real—TV shows don’t just drop huge cameos for nothing. LL Cool J’s appearance felt more like a strategic play than a nostalgic nod. Could this be CBS testing the waters? You bet.
LL Cool J Confirms Recurring Role—but What Does It Mean?
From Guest Star to Series Regular?
After the episode aired, LL Cool J made it official—he’ll be returning in NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3. But wait, there’s more: he’ll appear recurringly, which means not every episode, but definitely more than just a cameo.
CBS Weighs Fan Demand
The network has seen the reaction. And let’s face it, putting LL Cool J full-time on NCIS: Hawai’i isn’t just smart—it’s gold. With NCIS: LA ending, they’ve got room in the roster. And who better to boost ratings than Sam freakin’ Hanna?
Why LL Cool J’s Move to Hawai’i Makes Sense
Continuity Within the NCIS Franchise
Keeping beloved characters alive across series isn’t new (looking at you, Ziva). It helps the shows feel connected and gives longtime fans a reason to stick around. Sam Hanna isn’t just a random drop-in—he brings a history that deepens the plot.
Fresh Environment, Familiar Face
Let’s be honest: LL Cool J chilling in Hawaii? That’s content we didn’t know we needed. A beach-side Sam Hanna opens up storytelling that LA just couldn’t provide.
How Often Will You See Sam Hanna in NCIS: Hawai’i?
The Reality of “Recurring” Status
So what does recurring actually mean? Industry talk suggests LL Cool J will appear in about 6–10 episodes in Season 3. That’s a pretty solid presence—not a lead, but definitely consistent.
Potential for Promotion to Series Regular
Here’s where it gets juicy. If the response continues to blow up (which, let’s face it, it will), don’t be surprised if he moves from recurring to full-time cast before the season ends.
The Fan Reaction: Social Media’s Verdict
Twitter’s Got Opinions—and They’re Loud
Fans lit up social media when LL appeared. Hashtags like #SamHannaLives and #LLInParadise trended across platforms. It’s clear: viewers are here for this.
The Power of Fan Demand
Studios pay attention to engagement. If the audience keeps asking for LL Cool J full-time, CBS might just deliver.
What It Means for the Rest of the Cast
Will Sam Hanna Overshadow the Hawai’i Team?
It’s a valid concern. Vanessa Lachey’s Jane Tennant has led the show with finesse. Bringing in a strong character like Sam could shift the balance—but it could also elevate the dynamic.
Opportunities for New Story Arcs
More crossover, more drama, more layered stories. Sam Hanna’s experience opens up new angles, especially if they tap into his past with NCIS and military ops.
LL Cool J’s Commitment to the Role
Not Just a Paycheck—He Loves This Character
In interviews, LL Cool J has expressed deep affection for Sam Hanna. He’s not just collecting a check—he cares about the character’s journey and the fans who support him.
Balancing Music, Acting, and Now Paradise
He’s a busy man. But his return to NCIS: Hawai’i shows that Sam Hanna’s story isn’t done yet—and LL Cool J is ready to bring the heat.
