LL Cool J Says Returning to New York for “NCIS” Spinoff Was ‘a Full Circle Moment’: ‘Never Forget Where You Came From’ (Exclusive)

**LL Cool J’s Return to His Roots in ‘NCIS: New York’ Premiere**

The much-anticipated premiere of ‘NCIS: New York’ is set to take place on October 6, 2026, with LL Cool J stepping back into the role of Sam Hanna, marking a significant return to his hometown. The event, held at the Intrepid Museum on October 1, provided the actor with an opportunity to reflect on the importance of this transition for both his character and himself.

LL Cool J, now 55, expressed his excitement about bringing Sam Hanna back to New York City, a place he holds dear as it’s both his birthplace and the setting that informs much of the narrative of the new series. He described the experience as a “full circle moment,” akin to the hero’s journey often depicted in literature. “I return home to teach,” he said, adding a sense of purpose to his return. This sentiment resonates deeply, as it serves as both a personal journey and a broader reminder of one’s roots.

Having portrayed Sam Hanna for over a decade on ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’, Cool J is keenly aware of how the dynamics shift with the character’s relocation to New York. “It shows you that anything is possible,” he noted, championing the notion of growth and transformation while underscoring the importance of remembering where one comes from.

The energy of New York City plays a crucial role in shaping the show’s narrative and its overall atmosphere. Cool J highlighted that the filming experience distinctly differs from that of Hollywood. “Filming in New York is incredible. It’s not Hollywood,” he commented, noting the unique vibe that the city offers, one that is filled with unpredictability and immediacy.

Beyond the backdrop, the character of New York itself assumes a significant role in the storyline. LL Cool J believes that the city imbues the series with a particular authenticity that cannot be replicated elsewhere. He stated, “New York is like a main character in the show.” This sentiment emphasises how integral the city is to the narrative, with Cool J asserting that while he and his co-stars, such as Scott Caan and Jennifer Beals, also add depth, the city’s essence is irreplaceable.

The rapper-turned-actor’s commitment to showcasing an authentic representation of New York shines through in his remarks. He was unequivocal in his belief that the series accurately encapsulates the bustling energy of the city. “We are truly bottling the energy of New York or, a better word is channeling, because you can’t bottle it,” he explained. This dedication to authenticity is a reassuring factor for viewers who are fans of both him and the original series.

As the premiere date of ‘NCIS: New York’ approaches, anticipation continues to build. Fans are eager to see how the character of Sam Hanna adapts to his new environment while maintaining connections to his past. With LL Cool J at the helm, the show promises to be a compelling blend of action, drama, and the vibrant life that New York City embodies.

‘NCIS: New York’ will premiere on CBS on Tuesday, October 6, from 9 to 10 p.m. ET/PT and will also be available for streaming on Paramount+. As fans gear up to watch, they can look forward to a series that not only thrills but also celebrates the unique essence of one of the world’s most famous cities.