Scott Caan and LL Cool J Lead NCIS: New York in Historic Franchise First
CBS is taking a big swing with its newest NCIS spinoff, and Iowa fans of the long-running franchise have reason to pay attention. The network has confirmed that NCIS: New York will premiere this fall, bringing back two familiar faces in a way the franchise has never done before.
Scott Caan, best known for playing Danny “Danno” Williams on Hawaii Five-0, will return to CBS as a completely new character: Nick Schaeffer. He joins LL Cool J, who reprises his role as Sam Hanna from the canceled NCIS: Los Angeles. The pairing marks a historic first for the NCIS universe, as Caan becomes the most prominent actor to play two distinct leading roles across the franchise’s shared universe.
“It’s a calculated risk,” said TV analyst Mark Johnson. “Caan’s previous character was a fan favorite, and asking audiences to accept him as a new, more roguish agent is a bold move.”
Why This Matters for Iowa Viewers
For Iowans who have followed the NCIS franchise for years, this spinoff offers fresh storytelling while keeping the core elements that made the original a hit. The show will air directly after NCIS Season 24 on CBS, making it easy to catch both episodes back-to-back.
“Iowa audiences are loyal to procedurals,” said Sarah Miller, a media professor at the University of Iowa. “The NCIS brand has strong rural and suburban appeal, and this new series could attract viewers who want action without the political overtones of other shows.”
What to Expect from NCIS: New York Season 1
CBS has ordered a full 20-episode season, ensuring the series will run through the 2026-2027 TV schedule. The premiere is set for October 6. The show follows Sam Hanna as he returns to his hometown of New York to lead a new field office, after a two-episode appearance in NCIS Season 23 quietly set up his comeback.
LL Cool J has hinted that the first episode may start in the Middle East, with an event that catalyzes the creation of the New York office. The cast includes Jennifer Beals as Robyn Wells, Jacqueline Byers as Addison “Addy” Ross, Shane Harper as Wyatt Hill, Devin Druid as Sean Sullivan, and Cameron Moir as Ian Chilton.
A Historic Franchise First
While dozens of actors have appeared across multiple NCIS shows, Caan’s situation is unique. His Hawaii Five-0 character, Danny Williams, was already part of the NCIS universe thanks to a 2012 crossover with NCIS: Los Angeles. That episode also featured LL Cool J’s Sam Hanna, meaning the two actors have shared screen time before — but in different roles.
“Audiences may struggle to separate Caan from his previous character,” Johnson said. “If they loved Danny Williams, they might resist seeing him as a different person. If they didn’t, they may still be skeptical.”
Either way, the move is a gamble that could pay off if the writing is strong. For Iowa viewers, it’s a chance to see two veteran actors bring new energy to a beloved franchise.
How NCIS: New York Fits Into the Fall Lineup
The new series will premiere alongside NCIS Season 24 and NCIS: Origins Season 3. Other spinoffs, like NCIS: Sydney, have been shortened to make room. The show’s time slot directly after the flagship series is designed to maximize viewership.
For Iowans who enjoy crime dramas, NCIS: New York offers a familiar formula with a fresh setting. The show promises to balance action, character development, and the procedural elements that have kept the franchise running for over two decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does NCIS: New York premiere?
The series debuts on October 6, 2026, on CBS.
Will there be crossovers with other NCIS shows?
Yes. The show is expected to have crossovers with NCIS Season 24, building on Sam Hanna’s appearance in Season 23.
Why is Scott Caan’s role historic?
He is the most well-known actor to play two distinct leading roles in the NCIS universe, having previously starred as Danny Williams on Hawaii Five-0.