The NCIS franchise may be expanding once again. A new iteration of the popular police procedural set in Hawaii is currently in development at CBS but not yet greenlit, PEOPLE confirms. CBS Studios, the production company behind the NCIS franchise, declined to comment when contacted by PEOPLE.
According to Variety, the new show will follow a team of Naval criminal investigators who operate on the Hawaiian Islands. NCIS: New Orleans showrunner Christopher Silber will serve in the same capacity on the Hawaii project, while Jan Nash — an executive producer on New Orleans — and SEAL Team supervising producer Matt Bosack are attached to executive produce the series, The Hollywood Reporter reported. News of a Hawaii iteration of NCIS comes almost a year after the end of CBS’ Hawaii Five-0 reboot. According to Deadline, CBS Studios would likely use the production base on the islands previously built for Hawaii Five-0 in the new NCIS series.
If you thought the NCIS universe was done growing, think again. CBS is officially working on a brand-new spinoff titled ‘NCIS: Hawaii’, and fans are buzzing with excitement. The iconic procedural franchise, known for mixing action-packed investigations with strong character-driven storytelling, is taking its talents to the tropics.
So, what can you expect from the newest island-bound installment? Let’s dive deep into the details!
The Legacy of NCIS – A Franchise Built on Crime and Character
How NCIS Became a Global Phenomenon
Starting as a JAG spinoff in 2003, NCIS quickly carved out its own identity. Over two decades later, it has spawned multiple successful series including NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, and NCIS: Sydney.
Why CBS Keeps Building the NCIS Universe
Simple answer: NCIS sells. From high ratings to a loyal fanbase, the franchise proves time and again that viewers crave the mix of military-themed intrigue, forensics, and personal drama. It’s no wonder CBS is eager to drop anchor in Hawaii.
What We Know So Far About NCIS: Hawaii
The Setting – Why Hawaii?
Hawaii isn’t just a pretty backdrop. It’s also a hub of U.S. military activity in the Pacific, making it an ideal spot for NCIS agents to investigate crimes involving Navy and Marine personnel. Expect lush visuals, island culture, and high-stakes cases that stretch across the Pacific Rim.
Who’s Behind the Scenes?
The project is being developed by CBS Studios with executive producers from the NCIS and SEAL Team teams. That means fans can expect the same tone and structure they know and love—but with a tropical twist.
The Cast – Who Could Lead NCIS: Hawaii?
Will We See Familiar Faces?
While CBS hasn’t confirmed any returning characters, don’t rule out cameos. With the interconnected NCIS universe, there’s a good chance we might see a familiar agent or two dropping by.
New Talent on the Horizon
The casting process is underway, with speculation about a strong female lead heading the new team. Think of it as a blend of Gibbs’ grit and Jane Tennant’s charisma—if early leaks are to be believed.
Plot Teasers – What Will NCIS: Hawaii Be About?
The Usual NCIS Formula (With a Twist)
Expect all the classic NCIS elements: dead bodies, Naval crimes, clever techs, and banter-filled teamwork. But this time, the cases may involve global military strategy, cultural tensions, and eco-security.
Themes That Will Set It Apart
NCIS: Hawaii aims to integrate more local culture, environmental crimes, and geopolitics into its storylines, giving it a unique flavor that distinguishes it from other entries in the franchise.
Production Details and Filming Updates
Is It Filming Yet?
As of mid-2025, early production stages have reportedly started. Location scouting and early casting calls are underway. Full production is expected to kick off later this year.
Filming in the Aloha State
Filming in Hawaii isn’t just scenic—it’s strategic. With tax incentives and seasoned production crews (thanks to shows like Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I.), the location is ready for primetime action.
Why NCIS: Hawaii Could Be a Game-Changer
A Fresh Perspective for the Franchise
Adding a diverse cast and stories rooted in Pacific cultures could attract a wider, younger audience. It’s the perfect opportunity to modernize the franchise without losing its core.
High Stakes in a High-Value Location
From international espionage to environmental sabotage, Hawaii’s role in global security opens up an entirely new category of stories that haven’t been explored in other NCIS series.
What Fans Are Saying About the Spinoff
Social Media Reactions
Twitter and Reddit have been lighting up with reactions. Some fans are thrilled about the tropical change of scenery, while others are cautiously optimistic, hoping CBS stays true to what makes NCIS great.
Fan Theories and Wish Lists
From dream casting (Jason Momoa, anyone?) to plot speculation involving Pearl Harbor and submarine espionage, the fanbase is already crafting stories of their own.
The Future of the NCIS Universe
Could This Be the Start of More Global Spinoffs?
With NCIS: Sydney and now Hawaii expanding the reach of the franchise, could we see NCIS: London or NCIS: Tokyo next? CBS seems to be betting on it.
Room for Crossovers
Don’t be surprised if characters from NCIS, Los Angeles, or Sydney pop in for multi-episode arcs or cross-series missions.
When Will NCIS: Hawaii Premiere?
Expected Release Timeline
CBS hasn’t confirmed a date yet, but with production picking up, a 2026 premiere is highly likely. That means we’ll be seeing the trailer drop sometime mid-2025.
Cultural Sensitivity and Representation
To truly stand out, the show needs to embrace Hawaii’s native culture, history, and people—not just as set dressing, but as core components of the stories.
Balancing the Serious with the Fun
Like the best NCIS episodes, Hawaii must juggle suspenseful plotlines with humor, camaraderie, and heart. Think of it as a high-stakes luau—explosive, fun, and unexpectedly deep.
Conclusion: Aloha to a New Era in NCIS
With NCIS: Hawaii, CBS is setting sail into new territory—both literally and figuratively. By combining the franchise’s tried-and-true formula with the rich setting of Hawaii and fresh character dynamics, the series has the potential to breathe new life into the beloved brand.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, one thing’s for sure: NCIS is not slowing down anytime soon. So, grab your sunglasses, cue the ukulele music, and get ready for tropical justice—NCIS style.
