NCIS Confirms Return of Franchise Favorite — And It Could Finally Solve the Hetty Mystery

Sam Hanna Returns to NCIS — Could Hetty’s Fate Finally Be Revealed?

LL Cool J is officially returning as Sam Hanna in NCIS Season 22, Episode 18, airing Monday, April 21, 2025. After his run on NCIS: Los Angeles and a brief stint on NCIS: Hawaii, Hanna’s return marks the first major crossover since the spinoffs ended — and fans are hoping it’s more than just a cameo.

While details of his appearance are under wraps, many believe it could finally address the long-unresolved storyline of Hetty Lange. The NCIS: LA finale suggested Hanna and Callen were heading overseas to find her, but viewers never saw the outcome.

With Linda Hunt unlikely to return, Hanna’s guest spot could be the perfect opportunity to provide closure — whether through a mission update, debriefing, or a touching tribute.

Beyond fan service, this moment offers a chance to reconnect the NCIS universe and honor a character whose absence has been deeply felt.