When NCIS: Hawai’i started, Jane Tennant was already divorced from huer husband, Daniel. She was dedicated to her work and her career, but as a single mother, she did an excellent job of balancing her home life. For the first part of Season 1, Tennant was committed to being single, and that was despite the advances of Captain Joe Milius. In Episode 8, “Legacy,” Tennant relented, and the two went on a date… just in time for Milius to be transferred to the Pentagon. Later, in Episode 21, “Switchback,” Milius returned for help with a case, and the pair picked up where they left off.
Milius also showed up for a single episode in Season 2, but that time around, Tennant was focused on her son. Milius aside, Tennant recently decided that she wanted to get back into the dating scene. She went out with a dentist, and that didn’t end well. But it seemed to show that Tennant was looking for a relationship. Whether Tennant finds a permanent relationship is yet to be determined, but the addition of Sam Hanna makes things interesting. Hitherto, there hasn’t been any flirting or anything between them. But being a procedural with a small cast, it’s not outside the realm of possibilities that the two would get together at some point. The thing is, it would be better if they didn’t.
If you’ve been watching NCIS: Hawai’i closely lately, you might have picked up on something a little extra in the air—no, not just the salty island breeze, but some serious romantic tension. Specifically, viewers are beginning to wonder: Is Jane Tennant finally getting a love story of her own? Let’s dive deep into what the show has been hinting at and whether we’re about to see a softer side of the fierce and fearless Special Agent in Charge.
Who Is Jane Tennant, Anyway?
The Heartbeat of NCIS: Hawai’i
Jane Tennant, played brilliantly by Vanessa Lachey, is the first female lead in the NCIS franchise, and she’s totally crushing it. She’s smart, strategic, a fierce leader—and let’s be honest, a total badass.
Career-First, Always… Until Now?
From the very beginning, Tennant has been portrayed as someone who puts duty before desire. But lately? Things feel different. Viewers are noticing shifts. Moments. Glances. And possibly… sparks?
Are the Writers Hinting at a Love Story?
Subtle Changes in the Script
Writers know how to plant seeds. Recently, we’ve seen more scenes that give Tennant a break from her all-business attitude. Scenes that seem designed to peel back layers, showing more vulnerability, more emotion—more humanity.
Longer, Warmer Interactions With Certain Characters
There’s definitely some chemistry going on, especially with a couple of recurring male characters. (Don’t worry—we’re getting to them!)
Who Could Be Jane Tennant’s Possible Love Interest?
1. Captain Joe Milius – The Strong Silent Type
Joe Milius, a Navy officer with ties to Tennant’s world, has had more than a few lingering stares and charged conversations with her. There’s history, yes. But is there more?
2. Kai Holman – Too Young or Just Right?
Some fans even speculate a potential future with Kai Holman. Though younger and currently more like a younger brother/colleague, shows love a good slow burn romance.
3. A Mysterious New Character?
Hey, this is network TV. Sometimes a new face walks in and—boom—instant chemistry. It wouldn’t be out of the question to see a new love interest pop up and shake things up.
Fan Theories Are Taking Over Social Media
Reddit Is Going Wild
There are threads upon threads on Reddit speculating about Tennant’s love life. People are dissecting every scene like it’s a college-level lit class.
Twitter and TikTok Think She’s About to Fall Hard
#TeamTennant is trending. And TikTok is full of fan edits capturing every subtle glance or playful smirk that might suggest something deeper.
Why Now? Timing Is Everything
Character Development 101
Romance is often used in TV shows to add depth. We’ve seen Tennant the leader, Tennant the mother… but not Tennant the lover. The audience is ready for more layers.
Ratings Booster? You Bet
Let’s face it—a sizzling romance is good for business. Adding emotional stakes makes every case more compelling.
Could Romance Complicate Her Role as Team Leader?
Workplace Relationships Are Always Risky
Especially in high-stakes jobs like NCIS. A romantic relationship could create tension or challenge her authority.
Or Could It Make Her Stronger?
Some fans argue that seeing her vulnerable might make her even more relatable—more real. A softer side could round out her character arc perfectly.
How Would Romance Impact the Show’s Tone?
Adding Warmth Without Losing Edge
NCIS: Hawai’i has always had a sunny, energetic vibe. Romance could enhance that without undercutting the serious storylines.
Balance Is Key
It would need to be subtle, smart, and character-driven. No cheesy drama, please.
What Does Vanessa Lachey Think About It All?
Hints From Interviews
Lachey has been tight-lipped, but she has hinted that there’s “room for Jane to explore new sides of herself.” That sounds like code for romance is definitely on the table.
She Deserves It, Doesn’t She?
After all the explosions, shootouts, and dramatic family moments, we’d love to see her find someone who actually gets her.
Could a Romance Be Part of a Bigger Season Arc?
Setup for a Season Finale Cliffhanger?
Imagine the season ends with Tennant choosing between duty and desire. Yep, we’re hooked already.
Or Maybe a Mid-Season Plot Twist
One kiss. One confession. One choice that changes everything.
Will Fans Approve?
Depends on the Chemistry
It all comes down to whether the love interest clicks. Forced pairings flop. Natural, slow-burn ones? Pure gold.
Some Just Want Her Single and Powerful
There’s a strong faction of fans who love Tennant exactly the way she is—solo, in control, and untouchable.
What’s the Show Saying Without Saying It?
Body Language Doesn’t Lie
Side glances, smirks, soft background music when certain characters are around—these are classic TV romance breadcrumbs.
More Focus on Her Personal Life
Any time a show starts exploring family, parenting, or emotional flashbacks, a romance is usually close behind.
Bottom Line: Are We About to See Tennant’s Heart in Play?
Honestly? It’s starting to look that way. While the show hasn’t gone full soap-opera yet, the signs are too strong to ignore. Whether it’s Joe, a new face, or someone unexpected, NCIS: Hawai’i might just be getting ready to ship its strongest character.
Conclusion: Love Is in the Hawaiian Air
Tennant’s been the glue holding her team—and the show—together. She’s shown she can handle terrorists, explosions, and government secrets. So why not love? Romance, when done right, could add real depth to her character and bring a fresh spark to the series. So here’s to hoping we’re not just seeing things. Maybe, just maybe, Jane Tennant is finally getting her moment.
