NCIS Confirms Return of Franchise Favorite – And It Could Finally Solve the ‘Hetty’ Mystery

NCIS is bringing back a major franchise character-and it might finally give fans the long-awaited update on Hetty Lange.

The NCIS universe has shrunk in recent years, with the end of NCIS: Los Angeles and the surprise 2024 cancellation of NCIS: Hawaii. A 2023 crossover reunited characters across shows, and NCIS: Hawaii even brought in LL Cool J’s Sam Hanna for a recurring role. Now, Hanna’s return is confirmed again-this time to the flagship NCIS series.

When Is Sam Hanna Returning?

LL Cool J will play Sam Hanna in NCIS Season 22, Episode 18, which airs on Monday, April 21, according to TVLine and the actor’s Instagram. While the plot is yet unknown, Hanna will most likely be assisting on a case, bringing his trademark approach to the mix. Fans are hoping that the episode will provide closure on the Hawaii cliffhanger in which Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey) confronted a menacing old mentor.

But the biggest opportunity here? Addressing Hetty Lange’s fate.

What Happened to Hetty?

Linda Hunt’s iconic Hetty was largely absent during NCIS: Los Angeles’s final seasons due to health concerns during the pand3mic. The finale hinted at a rescue mission, with Callen and Hanna heading overseas to find her-but viewers never saw what happened next.

Bringing Hanna into NCIS could finally put an end to that tale. While Hunt may not appear onscreen, an update on Hetty’s whereabouts would provide long-term admirers with much-needed closure.

As NCIS continues to honor its shared universe, this guest spot might just tie up one of the franchise’s last major loose ends.