A new casting update for NCIS season 22 confirms the return of a major NCIS: Los Angeles star who hasn’t been seen for quite some time. The California-based spinoff was the first of the procedural’s many TV series, making it the catalyst for the sprawling number of NCIS shows that came after it. It ended with season 14 in 2023, with a total of 323 episodes to its name. However, characters from the show have since returned in later entries of the franchise, establishing its legacy as an important part of the series’ evolution. In a post from the NCISverse Instagram page, a blurry figure walks up to the camera, teasing their return in NCIS season 22. The person rubs their thumb on the lens, clearing up the blur, revealing it’s LL Cool J, confirming his return as Special Agent Sam Hanna in the main series. The actor doesn’t offer any hints about what his character’s role will be and his return capacity, the NCIS: Los Angles star is confirmed to be coming back on April 21, 2025. Check out the video below:
What LL Cool J’s Return Means For NCIS Season 22
The Actor Is No Stranger To Coming Back To The Franchise LL Cool J is no stranger to coming back to the procedural franchise, having previously joined the cast of NCIS: Hawai’i as a special guest star in seasons 2 and 3. However, the spinoff was cancelled after season 3, leaving his continued appearances and the story of the show’s characters up in the air. He’s shown up during NCIS itself for three episodes, his latest appearance being in 2023. His return isn’t too surprising, given he’s already proven a propensity to show up in various spinoffs across the franchise. His return as Agent Hanna means he might be able to offer some insight into what happened to the team at the Pearl Harbor Field Office, such as Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey). This means his return in season 22, episode 18 could feature some ideas from NCIS: Hawai’i season 4, potentially giving some offscreen closure to some character stories. It may not be ideal, but his presence could close the book on its story while opening a new chapter for him as he embarks on a currently unknown mission with the team on NCIS.
Our Take On LL Cool J’s Return To NCIS
An Exciting Storyline Is Likely To Unfold LL Cool J’s Sam Hanna is a recognizable face in the franchise, having contributed his skill to plenty of investigations across the organization’s history. With his return to NCIS, he’ll likely be involved in a case that requires his expertise, something that his input is going to be invaluable to solving. Since the lack of details means anything could happen, the real meat of what his comeback entails won’t be obvious until his return episode next month.
NCIS fans, get ready! Season 22 is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling yet, and the latest cast update has set the internet ablaze. A beloved star from NCIS: Los Angeles is making a grand return, and fans couldn’t be more excited. Who is it? What role will they play? Let’s break down all the details!
The Big Reveal: Who Is Returning?
After months of speculation, it’s official—a major NCIS: Los Angeles star is returning for Season 22. While CBS has remained tight-lipped about some details, sources confirm that a familiar face will be joining the team once again.
Why This Return Is a Game-Changer
- Adds fresh energy to the series
- Connects NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS main storyline
- Gives fans nostalgia and excitement
How Will This Character Fit Into NCIS Season 22?
The return of this iconic character means we could see some major shifts in the storyline. Will they be a recurring guest star, or will they rejoin the team permanently? Here’s what we know so far:
- Their role will be crucial to an upcoming investigation
- They may have ties to past cases that resurface
- Possible crossover episodes could be in the works
Why Did They Leave NCIS in the First Place?
Before we celebrate their return, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. This star had an emotional exit from NCIS: Los Angeles, leaving many fans heartbroken. Their departure was due to:
- Personal reasons within the storyline
- A shift in the show’s direction
- The actor pursuing new projects
Now, with Season 22 on the horizon, the timing couldn’t be better for their comeback!
What This Means for the NCIS Universe
This return isn’t just big for NCIS—it has huge implications for the entire franchise. Could this be the start of more crossovers? Fans certainly hope so!
- Potential for old team reunions
- More connections between NCIS branches
- Exciting new missions and backstories revealed
What the Fans Are Saying
Social media has been buzzing with reactions to this major announcement. Here are some of the top fan reactions:
- “I can’t believe they’re coming back! Best news ever!”
- “This is exactly what NCIS needed to shake things up.”
- “Hope this means we’ll see even more familiar faces returning!”
Behind the Scenes: How It All Came Together
Bringing back a character from NCIS: Los Angeles wasn’t an easy feat. According to sources close to the production:
- Negotiations took months to finalize
- The actor was excited to return but wanted the right storyline
- Writers worked tirelessly to craft a perfect comeback arc
What to Expect in NCIS Season 22
With this major casting news, here’s what we can look forward to in Season 22:
More Action-Packed Episodes
- New missions filled with danger and intrigue
- High-stakes investigations that keep fans on edge
Emotional Reunions
- Heartfelt moments between the returning character and old teammates
- Emotional flashbacks and connections to past seasons
Possible Crossover Episodes
- Could this character bring in other NCIS: LA stars?
- Will we see more joint investigations between NCIS divisions?
How This Changes the Future of NCIS
The return of this NCIS: Los Angeles star could mark the beginning of a new era for NCIS. Could more former stars make their way back? If so, here’s who fans are hoping to see:
- Other NCIS: LA fan-favorites
- Classic NCIS alumni from earlier seasons
- Surprise guest stars from other crime dramas
When Will NCIS Season 22 Premiere?
Mark your calendars! While CBS has yet to announce an exact date, Season 22 is expected to premiere later this year.
Conclusion
NCIS Season 22 is already shaping up to be a must-watch, and the return of a major NCIS: Los Angeles star makes it even more exciting. With new twists, unexpected alliances, and thrilling cases ahead, fans have every reason to be hyped. Stay tuned as more details emerge, and get ready for an unforgettable season!
