CBS will reshuffle its Sunday primetime slate this week as the network opts to air the first episode of NCIS: Hawai’i’s upcoming two-parter episode after coverage of the AFC Divisional Playoff Game between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs. Let’s get real—when CBS pairs a powerhouse like the AFC Divisional Playoff with a prime-time crime drama, you know it’s a strategic masterstroke. This January, CBS isn’t just feeding football fans—they’re hooking viewers into part one of an explosive NCIS: Hawai’i two-parter right after the playoff game. Genius? Absolutely. But what’s the play here? Why now? And what does this mean for fans of both football and high-stakes drama?
The series starring Vanecha Lachey will return for “Spies, Part 1”, which airs from 10-11 p.m. ET/PT on Sunday on CBS. The first portion of the two-part episode follows what happens when NCIS investigates the mysterious death of a Navy engineer, Joseph Chan. They learn the last person he met with was his colleague, Maggie Shaw (Julie White), Jane’s mentor and friend, who’s been kidnapped.
Also, David Sola (Beulah Koale), a New Zealand intelligence service case officer arrives in Hawai’i, following a lead that connects Joseph’s death to a Chinese black op secret agent. The episode is directed by LeVar Burton. The second part is set to air the following day on Monday, Jan. 24 during the series’ regular time period in the 10 p.m hour. While Jane investigates Maggie’s kidnapping, she’s shocked when she learns the truth and enlists her team and Whistler to prove her findings. Part two sees Beulah Koale return as David Sola, a New Zealand Intelligence Service case officer.
Created/executive produced by NCIS: New Orleans executive producers/showrunner Christopher Silber and Jan Nash as well as SEAL Team writer-producer Matt Bosack, NCIS: Hawai’i is set in the Aloha State. It follows Jane Tennant (Lachey), the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor, and her team as they balance duty to family and country, investigating high-stakes crimes involving military personnel, national security and the mysteries of the island state itself.
So, what do you get when you blend prime-time football with heart-pounding procedural drama? A genius move by CBS that might just change how we consume Sunday night TV. The decision to air part one of NCIS: Hawai’i’s two-part special right after the AFC Divisional Playoff isn’t random—it’s marketing magic wrapped in suspenseful storytelling. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan, a casual NCIS watcher, or just someone who appreciates good TV, you’ll want to tune in. Trust us—this is one double-header you don’t want to miss.
