A Familiar Face Returns
At the heart of the new series is a returning fan favorite. LL Cool J will reprise his role as Special Agent Sam Hanna, bringing his experience and presence back to the small screen. This time, however, his journey takes a more personal turn as he heads back to his hometown of New York City.
In this new setting, Hanna will join the city’s NCIS field office, where he teams up with a sharp but unconventional partner played by Scott Caan. Together, they will lead a new unit tasked with tackling high-stakes operations aimed at protecting one of the world’s most critical urban and maritime hubs.
A Prime-Time Power Slot
CBS is positioning the new show as a key part of its Tuesday night lineup. NCIS: New York will air at 9 p.m., sandwiched between the flagship NCIS at 8 p.m. and NCIS: Origins at 10 p.m. Later in the season, NCIS: Sydney is expected to rotate into the schedule, keeping the franchise’s momentum strong across the year.
Behind the Scenes: Proven Creative Talent
The series brings together experienced hands from within the franchise. The pilot episode is written by R. Scott Gemmill, who previously served as showrunner on NCIS: Los Angeles for several seasons and contributed across its entire run. His reunion with LL Cool J signals a continuation of the tone and character depth that fans appreciated in earlier installments.
Showrunning duties will be handled by Byron Balasco, known for creating the drama series Kingdom. His involvement suggests a blend of character-driven storytelling with the action-heavy elements the NCIS brand is known for.
Building on a Strong Legacy
The new series stands on the shoulders of NCIS: Los Angeles, which aired from 2009 to 2023 and focused on undercover agents navigating high-risk threats to national security. That show featured a strong ensemble cast, including Chris O'Donnell, Daniela Ruah, and LL Cool J, helping cement its place as a fan favorite within the franchise.
With NCIS: New York, CBS appears poised to carry that legacy forward while introducing a new team, new dynamics, and a fresh urban backdrop.
A Sneak Peek Before the Premiere
Fans eager for an early glimpse won’t have to wait until fall. LL Cool J is set to appear in upcoming episodes of NCIS airing on April 21 and April 28, offering a preview of what’s to come and helping bridge the transition into the new series.
With a proven formula, a returning star, and a high-stakes setting, NCIS: New York is shaping up to be a notable addition to the franchise’s lineup—one that aims to capture both longtime viewers and a new audience alike.