As we anticipated, Sam Hanna’s (LL Cool J) return to NCIS provided us with valuable insights into other characters within the NCIS Universe. Additionally, we discovered new information about Sam Hanna that would have remained unknown without his involvement in NCIS Season 22.
Although we are still heartbroken over the cancellation of NCIS – Hawai’i and would do anything to see it return, this situation has turned out to be a hidden advantage for fans of Sam Hanna. The news regarding Sam Hanna brought a heavy heart as he decided to part ways with NCIS following the conclusion of the NCIS – Hawai’i series.
Nevertheless, Director Leon Vance (Rocky Carroll) has reassured that there will always be a place for him within NCIS. It’s evident that the end of the NCIS spinoff impacted Sam more deeply than he let on during the series finale, and its cancellation spared us from witnessing his struggle.
In NCIS Season 22 Episode 18, It Is Revealed That Sam Hanna Has Departed From The Agency
In Season 22, Episode 18 of NCIS, Vance reached out to Sam to inform him that there is an opportunity for him to return to NCIS if he chooses. This revelation not only indicated that Sam (LL Cool J) had stepped down from his position but also linked his departure to the conclusion of the fourth series in the NCIS franchise. As their discussion progressed, Vance revealed that Sam’s resignation was a result of the loss of his team.
At the conclusion of NCIS – Hawai’i, Sam appeared to be thriving, radiating positivity as he embraced the Ohana spirit of his team. Given his history of losing comrades in both the Marines and NCIS, it was unexpected to learn that he chose to resign following the loss of this close-knit group.
The series failed to fully capture the depth of his sorrow by the conclusion of NCIS – Hawai’i Season 3. This might have been a result of time constraints as the show concluded, or it could have been a plot point intended for the fourth season. Ultimately, the entire narrative had to be resolved off-screen.
If the series set in Hawai’i had continued, it would have provided us with more insight into Sam Hanna and his challenges. While this would have delighted his fans, it also meant witnessing his grief. Observing our beloved characters in mourning is always difficult, as we share in their emotions.
We find ourselves grieving alongside them, wishing we could reach through the screen to comfort them. This would have been particularly true for Sam, given his character and the significant losses he has already faced.
Thanks to the cancellation, we avoided all of that turmoil. With the emotional struggles occurring off-screen, we were spared the painful moment of the former NCIS – Los Angeles character deciding to depart from NCIS entirely.
This would not only have been difficult to witness, but it also would have diverted attention from the main NCIS – Hawai’i team, making the fourth and final season frustrating as we sought resolution for the other characters.
What Lies Ahead For LL Cool J (Sam Hanna) Following His Return In NCIS Season 22 Episode 18 ?
Although we discovered that Sam has resigned, we also found out that he is embarking on an exciting new venture. When Vance extended an offer for him to come back to the agency, Sam revealed that he couldn’t accept it due to personal projects he needs to focus on.
One of these projects appears to be connected to Hetty Lange from NCIS – Los Angeles (played by Linda Hunt), providing us with the long-awaited news that Hetty is indeed still alive.
In the finale of the canceled NCIS – Los Angeles, the show left viewers hanging as Hetty remained stranded in Syria, but thankfully, Nell’s team managed to rescue her. Vance is aware that she is involved in a project concerning the DMZ, indicating that it is both official and perilous.
Consequently, Sam has made it clear that he cannot disclose any details, yet we know him well enough to understand that he would never abandon his duty to protect others. Should Sam make a return to NCIS, there is a glimmer of hope for an update on Hetty and the progress of her project.