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

I Am More Baffled About NCIS: Hawai’i’s Cancelation After CBS’ New Procedural Show Revival

Introduction: A Shocking Cancelation and an Even Stranger Revival

Let’s be real—TV cancelations happen. Shows come and go. But every once in a while, a network makes a decision that makes absolutely zero sense. That’s how many fans felt when CBS pulled the plug on NCIS: Hawai’i.

And now? CBS has announced the revival of another procedural—one that arguably had less buzz, fewer fans, and nowhere near the cultural relevance. The question on everyone’s mind: Why cancel a successful NCIS spin-off, only to resurrect a show no one asked for? Let’s break it down, and trust me—you might be just as baffled by the end of this.

The Rise of NCIS: Hawai’i

A Fresh Take in the NCIS Universe

NCIS: Hawai’i was more than just another spin-off. It brought something new to the table—a female lead, a lush tropical setting, and a fresh perspective on military investigations.

Strong Ratings & Loyal Fans

It wasn’t just surviving—it was thriving. The show consistently delivered decent ratings and had a dedicated fanbase that rallied on social media. So when CBS decided to cancel it, fans were stunned.

CBS’ Questionable Decision-Making

The Surprise Announcement

The cancelation came quietly, without a satisfying wrap-up or farewell season. There was no indication that the show was on the chopping block, which made it all the more confusing.

Mixed Reactions From Cast & Crew

Actors, writers, and producers were just as surprised. Many took to social media expressing heartbreak and disbelief. If they didn’t see it coming, who did?

The Procedural CBS Chose to Revive

The “Other” Show in the Spotlight

And then came the twist—CBS announced the revival of another procedural series, one that hadn’t aired in years and didn’t have the same pull as NCIS: Hawai’i. Suddenly, fans weren’t just sad—they were mad.

Why This One?

It’s not that the revived show was bad. But it wasn’t groundbreaking, and its original run didn’t generate the kind of fandom NCIS: Hawai’i did. So… what gives?

Why Cancel One Show to Revive Another?

Network Politics & Corporate Strategy

TV networks don’t always make decisions based on fan sentiment. Sometimes, it’s about internal politics, licensing costs, or shifting branding strategies. But none of that explains why a performing show like NCIS: Hawai’i would get the axe.

Production Costs vs. Viewer Numbers

Some speculate that filming in Hawai’i made the show more expensive. But here’s the kicker: even with higher production costs, it was still drawing more viewers than other shows that were renewed.

The NCIS Brand Still Has Power

NCIS: Hawai’i Was Holding Its Own

Compared to NCIS: Sydney or even the main NCIS series in its current form, Hawai’i was modern, exciting, and felt fresh. It didn’t deserve the chop, especially not when fans were just getting more invested in its storylines.

A Global Hit

NCIS shows aren’t just popular in the U.S.—they’re global. Hawai’i had a reach far beyond the American audience, which should’ve made it more valuable to CBS, not less.

Fan Backlash Is Loud and Growing

Petitions, Campaigns, and Twitter Storms

Die-hard fans aren’t going down without a fight. Petitions to bring the show back have already collected thousands of signatures. Twitter/X hashtags trend every time CBS mentions anything remotely related.

The Power of Fandom in 2025

In today’s media landscape, fandoms matter. Look at how shows like Lucifer or Brooklyn Nine-Nine got revived because of public outcry. The NCIS: Hawai’i fandom is proving it has that same energy.

CBS’ Misfire: Ignoring Viewer Loyalty

Misreading the Room

Networks sometimes forget that loyalty isn’t just built—it’s earned. When viewers feel dismissed or ignored, they don’t just get sad—they get loud. CBS miscalculated the fan reaction big time.

Backlash May Outlast the Revival Hype

Sure, reviving an old show might give CBS a short-term boost. But in the long run, alienating loyal NCIS fans could cost them more than they bargained for.

Comparing the Two Shows: Apples and Oranges

Cast Chemistry & Representation

NCIS: Hawai’i had a unique dynamic—diverse cast, strong female lead, and real emotional arcs. The revived show? It feels dated, even before it airs.

Modern Storytelling vs. Nostalgia Bait

Hawai’i tackled modern issues with empathy and nuance. The revival feels more like a play on nostalgia than a step forward.

What CBS Might Be Underestimating

Streaming Numbers Matter Now More Than Ever

Even if broadcast ratings dipped slightly, streaming engagement is the real metric today. NCIS: Hawai’i had solid replay value, and fans kept binging.

Merchandise, Rewatches, and Global Markets

NCIS: Hawai’i was more than an episodic show—it had long-tail value. CBS might’ve killed a potential long-term winner for a short-term publicity stunt.

Was There a Bigger Plan?

Spin-Off Setup or Corporate Reshuffle?

Could CBS be planning another spin-off down the line? Maybe a character from Hawai’i will reappear elsewhere? It’s possible, but right now, fans aren’t buying it.

Final Thoughts: CBS Dropped the Ball

In a TV world full of remakes, reboots, and revivals, NCIS: Hawai’i was an original voice in a familiar universe. It brought fresh energy, new faces, and a beautiful backdrop to a franchise that needed it.

Canceling it felt like a mistake. Reviving a less compelling procedural at the same time? That’s just salt in the wound.

Conclusion: Confusion, Frustration, and Hope

We’re not just upset about the cancelation. We’re confused. We’re frustrated. And honestly? We’re hopeful—hopeful that fan pressure, social media momentum, and the sheer strength of the NCIS: Hawai’i cast and crew might bring this show back from the dead. CBS, if you’re listening—do the right thing.