NCIS Season 22 Episode 18 recap: Sam Hanna is back 

In NCIS Season 22, Episode 18, titled After the Storm, Special Agent Sam Hanna's character is reprised by LL Cool J, making a significant return to the franchise. Previously a central character and an agent in NCIS: Los Angeles, Sam now serves in Washington, D.C., becoming a "voice" of the military and presenting their issues. The episode premiered on Monday, April 21, 2025, on CBS and Paramount+.

The return of Sam was the highlight of NCIS Season 22, episode 18, with him again helping the fellow agents to solve a crucial case. Read on to know the full recap of the episode.

Here is what happened in Season 22, Episode 18 of NCIS

The episode portrays a triple homicide at a D.C. motel involving combat veterans. NCIS agents investigate and uncover a paramilitary conspiracy linked to a private military company named Iron Horizon.

Sam is called for the case when Sam's friend is found connected with the case and agrees to speak only to him. This is how the case intersected with Sam's past. Mark Davis was investigating Iron Horizon's illegal activities, including war crimes. Mark had attempted to blow the whistle before being betrayed and nearly killed.

The episode also aims to show that there is more to Sam than his professional side. One such was him having a karaoke night with Dr. Jimmy Palmer and his daughter, Victoria.

After years as a field agent, particularly with the elite team in NCIS: Los Angeles, Sam has taken a dramatic turn in his career path. Following the loss of his team in Hawai’i, which impacted him deeply, Sam decided he needed some time just to be, both physically and mentally. He requested a "leave of absence" and has since not reemerged in the field. This makes his appearance in Washington, D.C., working on Capitol Hill special. Instead of tactical gear, he now wears a suit and engages with policymakers and makes the unheard issues heard about soldiers and agents.

Sam helps the team to solve a crucial case with his past in the NCIS new episode

The investigation leads to a confrontation with Russian mercenaries on a docked ship to rescue Mark, resulting in one of NCIS's most intense action sequences. The team uncovers the conspiracy with the help of Mark’s estranged brother.

NCIS exposes the treachery, leading to the arrest of the head of Liberty Staffing. The episode blends action, emotional reunions, and teases Sam’s potential return to NCIS while hinting at lingering mysteries, including Hetty's whereabouts and a possible corruption probe targeting Deputy Director LaRoche.

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Sam's return not only adds a familiar face to the team but also enriches the storyline with his unique perspective and expertise. His involvement in the case underscores the interconnectedness of the NCIS universe and thrilled the fans.

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