NCIS: New York rewrites franchise rules with familiar face Scott Caan

CBS's upcoming spin-off 'NCIS: New York' is shaking up the procedural's formula, and not just by finally setting a show in the Big Apple. Per MovieWeb, one major change comes with the casting of Scott Caan as Sam Hanna's new partner, Nick Schaeffer.

Caan is no stranger to the CBS crime drama universe, having played Detective Danny Williams on 'Hawaii Five-0.' That series previously crossed over with 'NCIS: Los Angeles,' meaning his character and LL Cool J's Sam Hanna have technically met before.

The report notes it's unusual for the network to reuse an actor from such a prominent show in a new role within the same franchise. While Nick Schaeffer won't be Danny Williams in disguise, his 'roguish' description could create an interesting dynamic with Sam.

'NCIS: New York' will also delve deeper into Sam Hanna's personal history, specifically his upbringing in New York and his strained relationship with his Marine father, Colonel Raymond Hanna. His return to the city is triggered by investigating the death of a friend.

The series, starring LL Cool J and Scott Caan, is set to premiere on CBS on October 6, 2026.