AceShowbiz - CBS has unveiled its fall 2026 lineup, introducing a fresh addition to the NCIS franchise titled NCIS: New York. This new series will feature LL Cool J reprising his role as NCIS Special Agent Sam Hanna, a character fans recognize from NCIS: Los Angeles.

The upcoming spinoff will join the existing NCIS universe, airing alongside the original NCIS and the prequel series NCIS: Origins on Tuesday nights. The move signals CBS’s continued investment in expanding the popular procedural franchise with interconnected storylines and familiar characters.

Developed by R. Scott Gemmill, known for creating The Pitt, and Byron Balasco, the launch of NCIS: New York came as a surprise to many. This is especially notable since CBS already supports a third NCIS series, the Australian-produced NCIS: Sydney, which returned for a third season in 2026-27 and will air midseason.

The schedule adjustment means NCIS: Sydney will replace NCIS: Origins midseason, as the latter’s episode order is reduced for its third season. CBS’s strategy appears focused on balancing multiple spinoffs within the NCIS brand to maintain audience engagement across different settings and story arcs.

With NCIS: New York starring LL Cool J, the network aims to capitalize on the actor’s established fan base while expanding the franchise’s reach. This latest installment is set to bring fresh energy to the lineup when it premieres in the fall of 2026.