The 5 Biggest Surprises About LL Cool J's NCIS Return And Sam Hanna's Future In The Franchise

The NCIS universe has been dramatically reshaped over the last two years, and at the center of this seismic shift is the iconic figure of LL Cool J, reprising his role as Special Agent Sam Hanna. Following the emotional conclusion of NCIS: Los Angeles in 2023 after a remarkable 14-season run, fans were left wondering where the beloved former Navy SEAL would land. The answer, as of the most recent television schedule updates in late 2025, is everywhere—from the shores of Hawai’i to the D.C. bullpen of the flagship show, cementing the actor’s status as the true connective tissue of the entire franchise. His continuous, fresh appearances prove that the Sam Hanna storyline is far from over, offering a crucial bridge for the next generation of NCIS agents.

This article dives deep into the most current and surprising details of LL Cool J’s return, examining his pivotal roles in the recent seasons of multiple NCIS series. We reveal the behind-the-scenes reasons for his continuous guest-starring roles, the specific plot points that brought him back, and the executive producer comments that signal a potentially permanent future for Sam Hanna beyond what anyone expected after the NCIS: Los Angeles finale.

LL Cool J: Biography and Career Profile

Known professionally as LL Cool J, the actor and rapper was born James Todd Smith. His career is a rare example of success across multiple entertainment industries, transitioning seamlessly from a hip-hop pioneer to a celebrated television star and host. His influence in music and his enduring presence on screen have made him a cultural icon.

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• Full Name: James Todd Smith
• Date of Birth: January 14, 1968
• Place of Birth: Bay Shore, New York, U.S.
• Primary Occupation: Rapper, Actor, Record Producer, Author, Host
• NCIS Role: Special Agent Sam Hanna (2009–present)
• NCIS Series: NCIS: Los Angeles (2009–2023), NCIS: Hawai’i (2023–2024), NCIS (2025)
• Major Career Highlights & Awards:
  • Two-time Grammy Award winner (Best Rap Solo Performance)
  • Kennedy Center Honoree (2017)—the first rapper to receive this distinction
  • Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2021)
  • Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2016)
  • MTV Video Music Awards Video Vanguard Award recipient (1997)
  • Host of the Grammy Awards telecast (2012–2016)
  • Notable Albums: Radio, Bigger and Deffer, Mama Said Knock You Out
• Other Major TV Roles: Marion Hill in the sitcom In the House (1995–1999)

The Unexpected Crossover: Sam Hanna's Pivotal Role in NCIS: Hawai'i Season 3

The conclusion of NCIS: Los Angeles in May 2023 left a massive void in the NCIS family. However, the hiatus for Sam Hanna was surprisingly brief. LL Cool J made a shocking, unannounced cameo in the NCIS: Hawai’i Season 2 finale, a moment that instantly became one of the most talked-about events in the franchise’s history.

This surprise appearance was not just a one-off treat for fans. It set the stage for a recurring role in NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3. Sam Hanna was brought in as a "special guest star" to assist the Hawai’i team, led by Special Agent in Charge Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey). His storyline was immediately integral to the new season's arc.

Sam Hanna's Mission in the Aloha State

The first part of the NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3 premiere, titled "Run and Gun," revealed the specific nature of Hanna's presence. Following a dramatic event from the previous season, Jane Tennant was required to pass rigorous medical and psychological evaluations to be cleared for duty. The twist? Sam Hanna was the one conducting her evaluation, a high-stakes scenario that immediately established a deep, professional trust between the two agents. This dynamic was crucial, as it allowed Sam Hanna to seamlessly integrate into the new team's operations, providing tactical support and his signature gravitas. Executive producers framed his addition as a way to "shake things up" and provide unpredictable stories for the Hawaii team, demonstrating the franchise’s commitment to continuity and cross-pollination.

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The Flagship Return: Sam Hanna Joins NCIS D.C. in Season 22

Just when fans thought Sam Hanna’s new home was Hawaii, the NCIS universe delivered its biggest surprise yet. In a move that truly connected the entire franchise, LL Cool J reprised his role on the original, flagship NCIS series in Season 22. This marked a rare and significant crossover, bringing the former NCIS: Los Angeles star to the Washington D.C. headquarters for a pivotal case.

Plot Details of the 'After the Storm' Episode

The episode, titled "After the Storm," aired in April 2025 and showcased Hanna's unique skill set and reputation. The plot centered on a complex homicide case involving a trio of combat veterans murdered in a D.C. motel room. The crucial narrative hinge was that the primary suspect, for reasons only Sam Hanna could understand, refused to speak to anyone but him. This storyline perfectly utilized Hanna’s deep background as a Navy SEAL and his 14 years of experience as a Special Agent, positioning him as the perfect person to solve the episode-specific crime. His presence in the D.C. bullpen, working alongside agents like Parker, Torres, and Knight, was a powerful moment of franchise unity, reassuring fans that the character remains a vital part of the NCIS world.

The Future: Will LL Cool J Become a Permanent NCIS Fixture?

The back-to-back appearances on NCIS: Hawai’i and the flagship NCIS show have fueled intense speculation about LL Cool J’s long-term future. The question is no longer "Will Sam Hanna return?" but "Where will Sam Hanna go next?"

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Executive Producers Keep the Door Wide Open

While there is no official confirmation of a permanent role in the upcoming NCIS Season 23, executive producers have been vocal about their desire to keep the door open. Steven D. Binder, the executive producer of NCIS, has publicly addressed the possibility, stating that he would "love" to have LL Cool J return. This sentiment suggests that the character's appearances are driven by creative opportunity and the actor's availability, rather than a contractual obligation.

The current narrative trajectory positions Sam Hanna as a highly respected, almost legendary figure within the NCIS structure, capable of being deployed anywhere in the world. This flexible role allows the character to pop up in any of the existing or future spin-offs, maintaining his presence without requiring him to be tied down to a single location, much like the way he bridged the gap between the *NCIS: Los Angeles* ending and the new franchise era.

The Legacy of NCIS: Los Angeles

LL Cool J’s willingness to continue playing Sam Hanna is a testament to his affection for the character and the 14-year "ride" of NCIS: Los Angeles, which he openly discussed following its cancellation. The final episode of NCIS: LA saw Hanna and his partner, G. Callen (Chris O'Donnell), leave their roles in a satisfying, yet open-ended manner. By having Sam Hanna immediately transition into a recurring role on NCIS: Hawai’i and then a pivotal guest spot on NCIS, the franchise has successfully honored the legacy of the Los Angeles team while seamlessly integrating one of its most valuable assets into the main continuity.

The journey of Special Agent Sam Hanna is a powerful demonstration of how a character can transcend the boundaries of a single show. From the high-octane action of the OSP (Office of Special Projects) in Los Angeles to the tropical mysteries of Hawai’i and the political intrigue of D.C., LL Cool J has guaranteed that the spirit of NCIS: Los Angeles lives on. Fans can remain optimistic, as long as the producers keep talking about a return, the next Sam Hanna appearance is likely just around the corner.