It’s official – after months of rumours, CBS have finally confirmed that NCIS: Hawai’i is happening! The new spin-off will soon become the franchise’s third series and is set to look a little different in a number of ways. Not only is it the franchise’s first series with a woman in the lead role, but it’s also the first set outside mainland USA.
But what else can fans expect from NCIS: Hawai’i? We’ve done some digging and here’s everything we know so far…What is NCIS: Hawai’i about? Like the other series in the long-running NCIS franchise, NCIS: Hawai’i will follow a talented and tireless team of Naval Criminal Investigative Services agents dedicated to solving criminal cases involving the Marines and the Navy.
What sets the new series apart is that it will take place in a new base in America’s 50th state, the island of Hawai’i. The official synopsis for the show reads: “The world’s most successful television series continues on the seductive shores of the Aloha State as the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor and her team balance duty to family and country, investigating high-stakes crimes involving military personnel, national security and the mysteries of the island itself.”
NCIS: Hawai’i isn’t just another chapter in CBS’s long-running crime drama franchise—it’s a bold leap into new territory, quite literally. Set against the stunning backdrop of Oahu, this fresh spin-off adds tropical flair to the investigative action fans know and love. But don’t let the palm trees and ocean breeze fool you—NCIS: Hawai’i is packed with serious crime-solving, intense storylines, and a cast that brings heart and grit to every episode. If you’re curious about what makes NCIS: Hawai’i stand out, what to expect from its characters, and how it fits into the broader NCIS universe, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in.
What Is NCIS: Hawai’i All About?
A Crime Drama with Island Vibes
At its core, NCIS: Hawai’i sticks to the franchise’s successful formula: Navy-related crimes, forensic investigations, and high-stakes drama. But this series adds its own flavor by setting everything in the lush, culturally rich islands of Hawai’i.
A Female Lead for the First Time
This spin-off marks a franchise first—Special Agent Jane Tennant, played by Vanessa Lachey, leads the NCIS Pearl Harbor office. She’s the first woman to head an NCIS team in the franchise’s history, and her leadership style is as sharp as it is compassionate.
Meet Special Agent Jane Tennant
A Trailblazer on Screen
Jane Tennant is more than just a boss—she’s a mother, a mentor, and a fierce field agent. Her character blends toughness with heart, balancing the demands of leadership with raising two kids as a single mom.
Played by Vanessa Lachey
Vanessa Lachey brings authenticity and depth to Tennant. It’s a breakout role that shows off her range, combining action with emotional complexity.
Supporting Cast That Brings the Heat
Kai Holman (Alex Tarrant)
Kai is the island native who returns home to join NCIS. His character brings cultural authenticity and a fresh dynamic to the team.
Jesse Boone (Noah Mills)
A former big-city homicide detective, Jesse serves as Tennant’s right-hand man. He’s dependable, experienced, and always up for a challenge.
Lucy Tara (Yasmine Al-Bustami)
Smart, ambitious, and openly LGBTQ+, Lucy breaks stereotypes and adds meaningful representation.
Ernie Malik (Jason Antoon)
The quirky cyber-intelligence expert with a heart of gold, Ernie provides comic relief and crucial tech support.
The Setting: More Than Just a Pretty Backdrop
Filmed Entirely in Hawai’i
NCIS: Hawai’i doesn’t fake its setting. It’s shot on location, giving it an immersive, authentic island feel.
Showcasing Hawaiian Culture
This isn’t just “NCIS in paradise.” The series makes a conscious effort to showcase Native Hawaiian culture, language, and traditions. From respectful use of local customs to collaborating with Hawaiian consultants, it’s clear the show isn’t just using the location for aesthetics.
How It Connects to the NCIS Universe
Part of a Bigger Picture
While NCIS: Hawai’i can be watched as a standalone series, it occasionally crosses paths with the wider NCIS world. Characters from other NCIS shows have guest-starred, and storylines sometimes overlap.
Crossovers and Easter Eggs
Fans of the original NCIS and NCIS: Los Angeles will enjoy nods to familiar faces and references to past cases, maintaining a sense of shared continuity.
What Makes NCIS: Hawai’i Different?
Diverse Representation
From its cast to its storylines, NCIS: Hawai’i makes inclusion a priority. Characters of various backgrounds, sexual orientations, and cultures are woven seamlessly into the fabric of the show.
Fresh Storytelling Approach
It blends procedural storytelling with emotional character arcs. The show isn’t just about catching the bad guys—it’s also about the lives of the people doing it.
Episode Format: Classic Meets Contemporary
Case-of-the-Week Structure
Like its predecessors, the show follows a procedural format. Each episode presents a new case tied to the military or national security.
Ongoing Subplots for Long-Term Viewers
While each episode stands alone, long-term subplots—especially those involving Tennant’s personal life—keep fans engaged week after week.
Fan Reactions: What Are Viewers Saying?
Critics and Audiences Approve
Early episodes received solid ratings and generally favorable reviews. Fans have praised the performances, especially Lachey’s, and the refreshing setting.
Room to Grow
Not every fan agrees on every episode, and some critiques focus on pacing or predictability—but there’s widespread hope the show will evolve over time.
Ratings and Renewal Status
A Strong Start
NCIS: Hawai’i premiered with strong viewership numbers, comfortably holding its spot among top network dramas.
Renewed for More Seasons
Due to its successful debut, CBS quickly greenlit additional seasons, showing confidence in the show’s longevity.
Behind-the-Scenes Production Facts
Real Naval Collaboration
The show works closely with the Navy to ensure accuracy in procedures, uniforms, and chain-of-command structures.
Female Showrunners and Writers
The writing team includes women and local Hawaiian voices, adding authenticity to both the dialogue and storylines.
Where You Can Watch NCIS: Hawai’i
Streaming and Network Info
You can catch new episodes on CBS and stream past ones on Paramount+. Binge-watchers rejoice—full seasons are available!
What the Future Holds
More Crossovers on the Horizon?
Fans can likely expect more appearances from other NCIS agents. There’s buzz around potential crossover events with NCIS and FBI.
Exploring Deeper Arcs
Season 3 may go deeper into character development, family dynamics, and high-stakes international crime plots.
Should You Start Watching?
If You Love Procedurals, This One’s For You
Whether you’re a longtime NCIS fan or totally new, NCIS: Hawai’i offers a fresh take with familiar thrills. The characters are engaging, the setting is stunning, and the stories hit the right mix of suspense and heart.
Conclusion: NCIS: Hawai’i Is Here to Stay
NCIS: Hawai’i takes a big risk by stepping out of the shadow of the original series, and so far—it’s paying off. With a diverse cast, meaningful storylines, and a setting that adds depth rather than just scenery, this spin-off is more than just a new location. It’s a fresh chapter in a legacy franchise. And as it continues to grow, it’s clear NCIS: Hawai’i is carving out its own space in the crime-drama universe.
