NCIS: Hawai’i’s cancelation already caused a major backlash against CBS, but now I’m more confused about their decision to pull the plug on the series after learning about their new in-development series. Once the flagship series was established, the network found ways to expand the NCIS franchise by launching several spinoffs. Many of them became successful, and most importantly built a solid fan base. NCIS: Hawai’i was the youngest Stateside local offshoot, only debuting in 2021. But in three years, which includes a shortened final season, even I recognize that it has a loyal and committed following.
I must admit, I’m late boarding the NCIS: Hawai’i train. I have only started watching the spinoff, after hearing great things about the offshoot. Despite this, I have been closely following the uproar that CBS has gotten since NCIS: Hawai’i was canceled. For context, the network also pulled the plug on So Help Me Todd and CSI: Las Vegas, but while I’m sure that there’s also a backlash against them, nothing comes close to the criticism they have gotten for ending the NCIS spinoff.
A Plot Twist We Didn’t See Coming
If you’re still scratching your head over NCIS: Hawai’i being canceled, you’re definitely not alone. Fans were already upset when CBS pulled the plug on the high-performing spin-off. But now, with CBS announcing the revival of another procedural drama, confusion has turned into frustration. It’s almost like canceling your favorite beach vacation only to book a trip to the same destination with someone else. What gives?
Let’s break it all down—what happened, why NCIS: Hawai’i really deserved better, and why CBS’ recent revival move makes the cancellation look even more baffling.
What Really Happened to NCIS: Hawai’i?
A Sudden and Unexpected Goodbye
When CBS confirmed the cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i after Season 3, fans were shocked. The show consistently held solid ratings, delivered on action and character development, and was part of the powerhouse NCIS franchise.
Did Ratings Justify Cancellation?
Actually—no. The series averaged around 5.5 million viewers per episode and was one of CBS’ top 20 most-watched scripted series. In fact, its ratings were better than other renewed CBS dramas. So why was it cut?
Behind-the-Scenes Decisions
Industry insiders point to budget concerns and network reshuffling. But here’s the kicker: CBS just revived another procedural that had worse ratings during its original run. Make it make sense, right?
The Revival That Sparked Outrage
CBS Brings Back ‘S.W.A.T.’ and Other Procedurals
After canceling NCIS: Hawai’i, CBS announced the renewal and revival of shows like S.W.A.T. and Criminal Minds: Evolution. While fans are happy to see Shemar Moore back, it’s hard not to feel a sense of injustice for NCIS: Hawai’i.
A Double Standard in Programming?
S.W.A.T. was canceled and uncanceled within days due to fan backlash. Why didn’t NCIS: Hawai’i get the same lifeline? Was it because its cast didn’t include high-profile stars like Moore? Or did the network just not see its cultural value?
Social Media Sentiments Are Loud and Clear
From Reddit threads to viral TikToks, fans have been vocal. Tweets like “You revived S.W.A.T. but ditched NCIS: Hawai’i?!” have racked up thousands of likes and shares. Clearly, CBS hit a nerve.
Why NCIS: Hawai’i Mattered
Diverse Representation Done Right
Unlike many procedurals, NCIS: Hawai’i centered around a woman of color in a lead federal agent role—Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant. It also highlighted Pacific Islander culture, featured LGBTQ+ relationships, and showcased a strong female-led ensemble.
Setting a New Tone for Network TV
The show wasn’t just another cookie-cutter procedural. It pushed boundaries, tackled sensitive themes, and felt refreshingly modern. Its cancellation sends the wrong message about what networks truly value.
A Loyal and Growing Fanbase
From day one, the fandom was strong—and it only grew. Social campaigns like #SaveNCISHawaii trended globally. The show built a tight-knit community that CBS underestimated.
Comparing the Numbers
Ratings Breakdown
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NCIS: Hawai’i – Avg. 5.5M viewers
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S.W.A.T. – Avg. 4.5M viewers
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So Help Me Todd (renewed) – Avg. 4.8M viewers
So again, why was NCIS: Hawai’i canceled?
Streaming Success
On Paramount+, NCIS: Hawai’i often ranked in the Top 10 most-streamed shows on the platform. That’s not easy to ignore in today’s streaming-first ecosystem.
CBS’ Confusing Strategy
Is CBS Playing Favorites?
The decisions don’t seem rooted in performance or audience loyalty. It feels more like strategic favoritism—perhaps budget allocations or internal politics are to blame.
Procedural Fatigue or Poor Planning?
CBS thrives on procedurals. But canceling a successful one to make space for older titles feels like bad chess. You can’t win the game by sacrificing your queen.
Cast & Crew Left in Limbo
No Closure for the Characters
Fans didn’t even get a proper series finale. Storylines were left hanging, including Tennant’s leadership arc and Kai’s emotional journey.
Lost Opportunities for Representation
The cancellation ended a rare opportunity for Pacific Islander and military family narratives to be represented on prime-time television. That loss is more than just entertainment—it’s cultural.
What Could CBS Have Done Differently?
Listen to the Fans
Fan campaigns aren’t just noise—they’re market research. The passionate response should have prompted CBS to reconsider, just like it did with S.W.A.T.
Explore Streaming-Only Continuation
If budget was the issue, why not continue the series on Paramount+ as a digital exclusive? It worked for SEAL Team and Criminal Minds: Evolution.
What’s Next for NCIS: Hawai’i Cast?
Vanessa Lachey’s Rising Star
Lachey hasn’t announced her next move yet, but given her charisma and range, she’s bound to return in a major project soon.
Where Will the Talent Land?
From Alex Tarrant to Noah Mills, the talented ensemble deserves other prominent roles. Keep an eye out—these stars aren’t fading.
The Power of Fan Campaigns
#SaveNCISHawaii Movement
Thousands have signed petitions, launched digital campaigns, and even planned letter-writing events. This is far from over.
Can Another Network Save It?
There’s always a chance for another network or streamer to pick it up. Stranger things have happened—just ask Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
Conclusion: A Cancellation That Still Doesn’t Add Up
Let’s be honest—NCIS: Hawai’i didn’t deserve the axe. When CBS chooses to cancel a show with solid ratings, meaningful representation, and a loyal fanbase, only to bring back older procedurals, it sends a confusing message. Procedurals are a dime a dozen, but NCIS: Hawai’i had something rare: heart, heritage, and hope. And if CBS isn’t seeing the value, maybe it’s time another network does.
