A Majestic Opening for NCIS: Hawai’i’s Next Chapter
When a new season of NCIS: Hawai’i begins filming, it’s never just cameras rolling and scripts printing. It’s tradition, culture, meaning, and respect coming together in one timeless ritual. Today, the beloved CBS series marked the official start of production with its traditional Hawaiian blessing ceremony—an event deeply rooted in island heritage and a symbol of good fortune for everything that follows.
If you’re a fan eagerly waiting for the new season, you’re about to love the behind-the-scenes energy that kicked everything off.
Understanding the Hawaiian Blessing Tradition
The Hawaiian blessing isn’t something done for show—it’s a sacred cultural ritual meant to bring harmony, protection, and positive energy. Productions filmed in Hawai’i often honor this practice out of deep respect for the land (“aina”), the people, and the work ahead.
Think of it like clearing the air and setting the tone, a spiritual “reset button” before creativity begins.
Why NCIS: Hawai’i Continues This Beautiful Ritual
Since Season 1, NCIS: Hawai’i has embraced Hawaiian culture wholeheartedly. From portraying island life authentically to involving local cultural advisors, the show sees the blessing ceremony as a vital beginning to every season.
This year is no different. Cast members, crew, and producers gathered to take part in a moment that signifies unity and purpose.
Honoring the Land and Community
Hawai’i is more than a backdrop for the show—it’s a character in itself. The blessing acknowledges the privilege of filming on sacred land, ensuring the production walks forward with humility and gratitude.
The Ceremony: A Moment of Respect and Renewal
Although every blessing ceremony has its own nuances, they usually include:
-
Prayer (pule)
-
Offerings
-
The symbolic sprinkling of water
-
Chants (oli)
-
Acknowledgment of ancestors, land, and spirits
Participants stand together, often forming a circle, creating an atmosphere of togetherness. Even for those not familiar with the tradition, the ceremony feels powerful and grounding.
Cast and Crew Unite for a New Beginning
Today’s ceremony brought back familiar faces—actors, directors, writers, costume teams, and more. It’s a moment where everyone resets, reconnects, and refocuses on telling great stories.
A Bonding Experience
The blessing is also a symbolic team-building moment. Before stepping onto set or diving into intense scenes, the entire team experiences something meaningful together.
What This Means for the New Season
Every blessing marks the start of something exciting—and fans know that a new season means fresh mysteries, new cast dynamics, emotional arcs, and heart-pounding action.
The ceremony signals:
-
Production is officially underway
-
Scripts are finalized
-
Cameras will begin rolling this week

-
New storylines are ready to unfold
A Fresh Chapter Filled With High Stakes
While the show keeps plot details tightly under wraps, the excitement surrounding the season’s kickoff suggests there are major developments ahead. NCIS: Hawai’i is known for combining intense investigations with heartfelt character moments—and fans can expect even more of both.
Why Fans Love This Tradition
Part of what makes the series stand out is its respect for Hawaiian culture. Viewers appreciate how the show integrates real traditions rather than treating Hawai’i as just a scenic backdrop.
Cultural Representation Done Right
From language to customs to scenery, NCIS: Hawai’i consistently strives to honor the island’s cultural identity. The blessing ceremony reinforces that commitment.
The Impact on the Cast
Many cast members have spoken in past seasons about how meaningful the blessing is to them. Even those who aren’t Hawaiian feel touched by the ritual’s emotional weight.
Grounding and Gratitude
In an industry where schedules are tight and pressure is high, starting with a moment of peace brings grounding energy. It’s a reminder that storytelling is a privilege—and one that connects people from all walks of life.
What’s Next After the Blessing Ceremony?
With the ceremony complete, the production moves full steam ahead. Fans can expect:
-
Behind-the-scenes photos
-
Cast announcements
-
Early teasers
-
Location shoot updates
-
Episode details as filming continues
Hawaii’s Stunning Filming Locations Return
Beaches, naval bases, mountain cliffs, forests, and local communities will all appear once again as the show brings its cinematic vision of island life to screens worldwide.
Conclusion: A Powerful Start Filled With Hope and Excitement
The traditional Hawaiian blessing has always been a meaningful kickoff for NCIS: Hawai’i, and today’s ceremony set the perfect tone for the new season. As cast and crew joined together in gratitude and purpose, fans around the world felt the wave of excitement.
With production officially underway, the countdown begins—new mysteries, new action, and new character moments are coming soon from paradise.
5 Unique FAQs
1. Why does NCIS: Hawai’i hold a blessing ceremony each season?
To honor Hawaiian cultural traditions and invite protection, unity, and positive energy into the production.
2. Is the blessing ceremony filmed for the public?
Parts are sometimes shared through behind-the-scenes photos or video snippets, but it’s primarily a private ritual.
3. What happens after the blessing ceremony?
Production begins immediately—actors prepare for scenes, sets are finalized, and filming schedules start.
4. Who participates in the ceremony?
Cast, crew, producers, and cultural advisors all take part in the ritual.
5. Does every show filmed in Hawai’i do this?
Many productions choose to honor this tradition, but NCIS: Hawai’i has embraced it consistently since its first season.