NCIS: Los Angeles star LL Cool J isn’t finished with the NCIS universe just yet. He’s set to bring his iconic character, Sam Hanna, to the original NCIS series in a special guest appearance.
Here’s the Lowdown: LL Cool J himself, along with CBS, confirmed that he’ll appear in the April 21 episode of NCIS. This follows a tease from cast member Brian Dietzen about a familiar face returning. LL Cool J played Sam Hanna for all 14 seasons of NCIS: Los Angeles, which ended in May 2023, and then moved onto NCIS: Hawai’i before that show’s cancellation.
What This Means Now: Fans of Sam Hanna get another chance to see the character in action, this time interacting with the core NCIS team. The actor shared his excitement in an Instagram video, stating, “Back on set, baby! NCIS. Let’s get it.”
The Bigger Picture: NCIS itself returns with new episodes on March 24, and it’s already been picked up for Season 23. This, along with the additions of prequel NCIS: Origins and the international spin-off NCIS: Sydney, proves the enduring popularity of the franchise. LL Cool J’s guest spot is a clear sign that even with show cancellations, beloved characters can still find a place within the expanding NCIS world.
