NCIS Is Finally Answering Hetty’s Biggest Mystery After 5 Years

by

As a big NCIS fan, I’m really excited to hear there might be some updates on Hetty Lange in season 23! The team is still dealing with the loss of Director Vance, and it’s going to be tough seeing Parker and the rest of the MCRT try to carry on without him. It feels like the best way to honor his memory, especially while they figure out who’s going to step into his shoes permanently. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing how they navigate all of this in the new season.

Even with everything else going on in the larger NCIS universe, the team has faced some big changes alongside their regular investigations. They recently solved a murder at a ship museum that turned out to be connected to World War II, and they also navigated the busy and somewhat unsettling Fleet Week celebrations so soon after Director Vance’s death. As the current TV season continues, the team will reconnect with an old friend who might shed light on what happened to Hetty.

Sam’s NCIS Season 23 Return Paves The Way For A Much-Awaited Hetty Update

The trailer for NCIS season 23, episode 17 (shared on YouTube by TVPromos) confirms Sam Hanna’s return to Navy Yard for a new case. While CBS hasn’t released details about the episode, titled “Reboot,” the trailer suggests his return is connected to a power outage and a death at NCIS headquarters. Fans are especially excited about Sam’s return because it could finally provide updates on Hetty’s situation.

The last time Sam Hanna visited headquarters, he had a significant talk with Director Vance about potentially rejoining NCIS after his departure. While Sam was considering it, he wasn’t ready to return immediately because he had personal matters to attend to. Vance guessed this might involve Hetty, who was rumored to be in a dangerous situation near the Korean Demilitarized Zone. Sam didn’t confirm or deny Vance’s suspicions, hinting that his former boss was likely right.

It’s been a couple of years since they last talked, but Sam is about to share new information regarding Hetty’s possible return. As fans will remember, Linda Hunt’s character, Hetty, was last seen in the 2021 NCIS: Los Angeles season 13 premiere, “Subject 17.” While there have been small updates – including one from Sam – it hasn’t been clear what Hetty has been doing.

Why Hetty’s Whereabouts Mystery In NCIS Is Better Resolved In Increments

Linda Hunt’s character, Hetty, was written off NCIS: Los Angeles because of health concerns and safety precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given Hunt’s age and health, filming her scenes required extra care. Ultimately, her limited on-screen presence led to her being moved to a guest star role, though she did provide a voice cameo in the show’s final episode.

Because Hetty is so private, NCIS can slowly reveal updates about her situation without giving everything away at once. This keeps viewers engaged, particularly those who used to watch NCIS: Los Angeles and are eager for more information. Sam’s return in season 23 of NCIS offers a chance to share some details, while holding back others for future episodes.

Like Screen Rant’s TV coverage? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get exclusive insights from your favorite show stars and creators – just be sure to select “Network TV” in your newsletter preferences!

Read More

2026-04-15 15:49