The upcoming CBS franchise expansion, NCIS: New York, is opening the door for recurring crossovers featuring original series star Brian Dietzen. This follows his upcoming guest appearance in the show’s series premiere.
Dietzen reprises his longtime role as Dr. Jimmy Palmer in the debut episode of the new spinoff. The series also brings back LL Cool J as Special Agent Sam Hanna alongside a new team of investigators based in New York City. The crossover reunites characters who previously shared screen time during Season 23 of the mothership series NCIS. Franchise veteran LL Cool J praised the working relationship between the two actors during a recent production update.
Expanding the Universe With Familiar Faces
Scheduled to premiere on October 6, NCIS: New York joins an expanding slate of procedurals on CBS. Showrunner Byron Balasco addressed reporters during a press panel regarding the integration of legacy characters into the new setting.
“Our goal is to honor the franchise but make a show that can live on its own,” Balasco said. “That said, so much of the DNA of this show was family, and we’re all in the same universe, so you can absolutely expect to see some familiar faces coming over to hang out with us for a while.”
When asked on the red carpet about whether Dietzen’s character might return after the premiere, LL Cool J expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations. “It felt good [having him there],” LL Cool J told reporters. “I love working with him. It was great to have him as a part of it. And I think we’ll do more crossovers in the future and I’d love to invite him back as well.” Balasco echoed that sentiment, noting that the production is open to further “cross-pollination” across the broader franchise.
Chemistry Drives the Onscreen Dynamic
Sam Hanna and Dr. Jimmy Palmer previously crossed paths during major multi-show crossover events linking NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles, and NCIS: Hawai‘i, as well as subsequent guest spots on the mothership series. Reflecting on their working dynamic, LL Cool J emphasized the importance of interpersonal chemistry.
“At the end of the day, everything’s about chemistry,” LL Cool J explained. “Sometimes one plus one equals three. Depends who the ones are. That’s what it is.”
Premiere Details and Schedule
NCIS: New York follows Sam Hanna as he returns to his hometown for a new mission. He is joined by Assistant Special Agent-In-Charge Robyn Wells, played by Jennifer Beals, and a new partner named Nick, played by Scott Caan. The supporting cast includes Shane Harper as Wyatt Sellers, Jacqueline Byers as Addy Ross, and Devin Druid as Sean Sullivan.
The series premieres on Tuesday, October 6, at 9/8c on CBS, airing between the Season 24 premiere of the mothership NCIS and the third season of the prequel series NCIS: Origins. New episodes will be available to stream the following day via Paramount+.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does NCIS: New York premiere?
NCIS: New York premieres on Tuesday, October 6, at 9/8c on CBS.
Which original franchise stars appear in the premiere?
LL Cool J reprises his role as Sam Hanna, and Brian Dietzen guest-stars as Dr. Jimmy Palmer.
Will Brian Dietzen appear in future episodes of NCIS: New York?
While his initial appearance is set for the series premiere, showrunner Byron Balasco and star LL Cool J have both indicated that future crossovers and return visits are possible.
Who are the main cast members of NCIS: New York?
The main cast features LL Cool J, Scott Caan, Jennifer Beals, Shane Harper, Jacqueline Byers, and Devin Druid.
