Cancelling Hawai’i was already controversial long before the viewership data for CBS’ latest year was released. It marks the third spinoff from the famed police procedural franchise to end, following NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans. That being said, out of all the cancelled offshoots in the universe, the Lachey-led series had the shortest time on the air. What makes its abrupt end more frustrating is that NCIS: Hawaii ended on a cliffhanger, with Tennant’s next case being set up. Now, it will remain unresolved — unless CBS reverses its initial verdict on the project.
The best example is CBS changing its mind on SWAT’s cancellation after Shemar Moore’s public comments about wanting the series to continue. In any case, there is precedent when it comes to networks walking back on their decisions on shows. The best example is CBS changing its mind on SWAT’s cancellation after Shemar Moore’s public comments about wanting the series to continue. Antoon’s criticisms over NCIS: Hawai’i’s unexpected end may not accomplish what Moore did essentially on his own. However, it could spark discussions among his co-stars and the viewership that the series was building. This could prompt CBS to at least consider greenlighting NCIS: Hawai’i season 4, just so the show can end with a proper send-off instead of a cliffhanger.
If NCIS: Hawai’i’s cancellation is overturned, however, the public may have to wait for a while to learn about its broadcasting schedule. While NCIS season 22 will maintain its original timeslot, the spinoff’s old block will be taken over by Mark Harmon’s NCIS: Origins, which will tackle Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ origins story in the agency. This means that CBS will have to find a new schedule for Tennant’s team’s return. Whatever the case may be, giving them another chance to properly say goodbye is infinitely better despite a potential wait time than leaving the show with a massive storytelling question.
CBS blindsided fans earlier this year by canceling NCIS: Hawai’i after just three seasons. For a show deeply rooted in cultural identity, diverse storytelling, and loyal viewership, it felt like a gut punch. But the bigger question now echoing across social media and fandom communities is this: Can CBS still uncancel NCIS: Hawai’i? Let’s dive deep into what’s going on behind the scenes, explore the chances of a revival, and understand why this show still has unfinished business.
Why Was NCIS: Hawai’i Canceled in the First Place?
Budget Cuts and Corporate Strategy
The main reason cited by CBS was “cost-saving measures.” Amid corporate mergers and a tightening economy, many networks have been making brutal programming cuts—even when shows perform well.
Streaming vs. Broadcast Economics
Even with decent ratings, NCIS: Hawai’i wasn’t delivering the mega-numbers that CBS’s core franchises like FBI or the mothership NCIS did. And the streaming profitability of the series didn’t tip the scales in its favor either.
Fan Backlash: A Movement Gaining Momentum
#SaveNCISHawaii
Shortly after the cancellation announcement, a tidal wave of fan support flooded social media. The hashtag #SaveNCISHawaii quickly trended, with fans sharing heartfelt posts, art, videos, and even organizing petitions.
The Petition That Shocked CBS
One petition on Change.org has now surpassed 100,000+ signatures, demanding CBS reverse its decision. That’s not just noise—it’s a community rising up.
TV History: Shows That Came Back from the Dead
Rescued by Fan Power
Let’s not forget Brooklyn Nine-Nine was canceled by Fox and then picked up by NBC. Lucifer was axed by Fox but revived by Netflix. Jericho, Longmire, and Manifest all lived again thanks to vocal fans.
So yes, history shows that networks can and have reversed course—when the pressure is high enough.
CBS’s Track Record: Do They Ever Uncancel Shows?
Not Often—But Not Impossible
CBS doesn’t usually walk back on cancellations. However, it’s not completely unheard of. While rare, shifts in leadership, sponsor support, or network synergy could change things.
Cast and Crew Reactions: Hope or Final Goodbye?
Vanessa Lachey’s Emotional Statement
Lead actress Vanessa Lachey was visibly heartbroken and posted a touching tribute to her castmates and fans. Yet, she ended her message with “this isn’t goodbye, just see you later,” fueling speculation.
Producers Drop Hints
Showrunner Matt Bosack cryptically tweeted, “There’s always another wave,” a nod to both surfing and potential continuation.
Behind the Scenes: Is CBS Regretting the Move?
Quiet Rumors Are Circulating
According to some insider scoops, CBS may not have anticipated such a strong fan backlash. Executives are said to be re-evaluating their programming lineup after a few summer flops.
Advertiser Interest Remains Strong
Local Hawaiian tourism boards and Pacific Islander advocacy groups had backed the show strongly. Losing that built-in cultural and financial support may have been premature.
Streaming Saves Shows—Could Paramount+ Step In?
The Paramount+ Possibility
Since NCIS: Hawai’i is a CBS Studios production and CBS is part of Paramount Global, shifting the series to Paramount+ seems plausible. In fact, Seal Team made the jump from CBS to Paramount+ and thrived.
Fan Campaigns Target Streaming Giants
Many fans are now tagging Paramount+, Netflix, and Hulu in hopes of finding a new home for the show. With streaming libraries in need of proven IP, NCIS: Hawai’i has real value.
Does the NCIS Franchise Need Hawai’i?
A Vital Part of the Brand
NCIS: Hawai’i brought fresh perspectives to a long-running franchise. It featured a female lead, strong LGBTQ+ representation, and highlighted Pacific Islander culture—elements that the broader franchise lacks.
A Strong International Audience
The show performs particularly well in overseas markets—especially in Australia, the UK, and parts of Asia. That global appeal gives CBS another reason to reconsider.
What Would It Take to Bring the Show Back?
Key Factors to Watch
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Continued fan pressure online
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Strong digital sales and streaming numbers
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Interest from advertisers and sponsors
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Open schedules for cast and crew
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Paramount+ stepping up as a savior
Timing Matters
If something happens, it needs to happen soon. Sets are being dismantled. Contracts expire. Fan energy fades. A swift decision could save everything.
Could a Limited Series or Movie Be a Compromise?
The Middle Ground
Even if a full season isn’t on the table, a limited event series or a two-hour wrap-up movie could give fans closure and keep the brand alive.
Crossovers Could Help
A special crossover with NCIS or NCIS: Sydney could reintroduce characters and keep the narrative thread open.
Is the Cast Onboard for a Return?
They’ve Said So Themselves
In interviews and social media posts, several cast members—including Alex Tarrant and Yasmine Al-Bustami—have hinted that they’d return in a heartbeat.
No Burning Bridges
Unlike some canceled shows, NCIS: Hawai’i left the door open creatively. No dramatic exits or cliffhangers that killed interest—just potential.
What Can Fans Do Right Now?
Get Loud. Stay Loud.
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Sign and share petitions
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Keep using the hashtag
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Rewatch episodes on Paramount+
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Write to CBS and Paramount executives
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Tag streaming platforms on social media
Every tweet, share, and post keeps the buzz alive—and networks pay attention.
Could CBS Still Uncancel NCIS: Hawai’i?
Absolutely—if the right pieces fall into place. It’s not just about ratings anymore. It’s about brand loyalty, fan advocacy, and evolving TV economics.
The story of NCIS: Hawai’i may not be over. In fact, the next chapter could be the most powerful one yet—if CBS listens.
Conclusion: The Fight Isn’t Over Yet
While NCIS: Hawai’i may be down, it’s definitely not out. From loyal fans rallying online to the strategic advantages of reviving the show, CBS still has time to make things right.
TV history shows that nothing is ever truly final in Hollywood. The waves that once carried NCIS: Hawai’i might just rise again—and bring this beloved series back to shore.
