NashvilleGab - NCIS Confirms Returning Franchise Member

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A Familiar Face Is Back in the NCIS Universe

Guess what? The NCIS franchise just got a major shake-up with the return of a beloved character. Fans of the franchise were thrilled when the news broke that a fan-favorite character was stepping back into action.

But who is making a comeback? This one-star’s return is sparking excitement across social media with a promise of an even more intriguing social media.

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Who Is LL Cool J?

James Todd Smith, known professionally as LL Cool J, is an aspiring rapper and actor. His debut album, Radio, was released in 1985 and sold over a million copies.

He eventually transitioned to acting, where he starred in films like Any Given Sunday and also ended up securing a prominent role as Special Agent Sam Hanna in NCIS: Los Angeles. His contributions have earned him two Grammy Awards.

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LL Cool J’s Role in NCIS

LL Cool J played the role of Special Agent Sam Hanna. Sam Hanna is a former Navy SEAL and seasoned NCIS operative.

He made his debut appearance in season 6 of the original NCIS series. He ended up becoming a central character in NCIS: Los Angeles, co-leading the team for all 14 seasons until the series ended in 2023.

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Origin of Sam Hanna

Special Agent Sam Hann made his first appearance in the two-part episode titled Legend (Parts 1 and 2). These episodes served as a backdoor pilot for the spin-off series NCIS: Los Angeles.

In Legend, the main NCIS team collaborates with the Office of Special Projects (OSP) to investigate a terrorist threat. The success and positive acclaim of these episodes led to the launch of NCIS: Los Angeles, in which Sam Hanna was a central character.

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NCIS: Los Angeles

NCIS: Los Angeles aired on CBS from September 22, 2009, to May 21, 2023. The series spanned over 14 seasons with a total of 323 episodes.

With the series’ conclusion in 2023, a significant chapter in the NCIS franchise came to an end. However, LL Cool J’s character, Sam Hanna, continues to make an appearance in the broader NCIS franchise.

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Conclusion of NCIS: Los Angeles

The series finale ended with significant developments for its main characters. The ending provided a conclusion to long-running storylines.

One notable development was G. Callen and Anna Kolcheck’s wedding. Similarly, Marty Deeks received life-changing news, including Kensi’s pregnancy announcement, along with Callen and Sam Hanna going on a mission to Morocco.

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LL Cool J’s Guest Appearances

Following the ending of NCIS: Los Angeles in May 2023, LL Cool Ja reprised his role as Special Agent Sam Hanna in the NICS: Hawai’i season 2 finale.

The episode revolves around Hanna assisting Agents Jane Tennant and Kate Whistler during a high-stakes mission in Venezuela. This surprise appearance of LL Cool J as Sam Hanna was well-received.

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Cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i

The third installment in the NCIS franchise, NCIS: Hawai’i, premiered on CBS in 2021. The series followed Jane Tennant and her team investigating high-stakes crime involving military personnel and national security.

Despite its unique setting and storyline, the series was canceled after its third season. The finale aired on May 6, 2024, marking the end of its run.

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Brian Dietzen Teases Return of a Familiar Face

In early March 2025, Brian Dietzen, who plays the character of Jimmy Palmer on NCIS, hinted at the return of a “familiar” face from the show’s past. In an interview with TV Insider, the actor, when asked about returning characters, shared, “In fact, I just worked with one, and I’m not allowed to tell you.”

He added, “But I’ll tell you, it’s someone from NCIS’s past. And it’s going to be fantastic, and I think people are really going to lose it.”

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Announcement of Return

LL Cool J announced his character’s return to the NCIS franchise for season 22. The announcement was made via a collaborative Instagram post with the official NCIS account.

The teaser included LL Cool J expressing his excitement about being “back on seat.” His first appearance is scheduled for the coming month.

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Return Date

LL Cool J is going to reprise his role as Sam Hanna, with the return episode scheduled to air on April 21, 2025. However, no details regarding the upcoming role of Sam Hanna have been released.

Speculations have filled the internet regarding the episode’s storyline. However, neither LL Cool J nor the franchise has spoken about the upcoming narrative.

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Fan Reactions

The announcement of LL Cool J’s return as Special Agent Sam Hanna has led to a wave of enthusiasm among fans across social media platforms. Fans expressed their excitement over Cool J reprising his role.

This support hints at the popularity of LL Cool J’s character. The character’s strong connection with the NCIS series is portrayed in the fan’s excitement and response.

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Impact on NCIS Universe

LL Cole J’s appearances across multiple series showcase the interconnectedness of the NCIS franchise. He initially appeared in NCIS: Los Angeles, followed by guest roles in NCIS: Hawai’i, and now in the original NCIS.

This cross-series involvement gives the series continuity. Such appearances contribute greatly to deepening character development and creating a unified universe.

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Production Insights

NCIS season 22 filming began in July 2024, premiering on October 14, 2024. In January 2025, the production was temporarily halted due to severe wildfires in Southern California.

This led to a shutdown on January 9. Filming once again resumed on January 13, and the production team made sure that season 22 continued to deliver high-quality content.

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LL Cool J’s Excitement

LL Cool J expressed excitement about his return to the NCIS franchise. Reflecting on his extensive tenure with the franchise, LL Cool J previously commented on future endeavors, saying, “I look forward to continuing my partnership with CBS.”

While you wait for the upcoming episode, fans can’t wait for Squid Game Season 3, which is coming sooner than you think.