NCIS: Hawai‘i has become one of the most talked-about entries in the NCIS franchise, blending gripping investigations with unforgettable character dynamics — especially Jane Tennant’s groundbreaking leadership. As the series progresses, fans have been buzzing with theories about how it could all end. And honestly? Some of these theories make so much sense that they feel almost too accurate to ignore.
Below is a deep dive into the most compelling, believable, and viral-worthy fan theories about the possible ending of NCIS: Hawai‘i. Buckle up — some of these might change how you view the show entirely.
Why Fans Are Obsessed With Possible NCIS: Hawai‘i Endings
Fans aren’t just casually speculating — the theories are everywhere because the show has consistently layered emotional tension, character arcs, and unresolved mysteries. With a strong ensemble cast and surprisingly deep storylines, viewers can practically feel that a major final twist is inevitable.
So what are the theories that fans find the most convincing? Let’s break them down.
Theory 1 — Jane Tennant Leaves NCIS for a Higher, More Dangerous Calling
Jane Tennant has proven herself again and again — as a leader, a strategist, and a protector of her team. Fans believe the finale might show her stepping above NCIS altogether.
A Promotion to Washington DC
Some fans speculate that Tennant could be offered a major leadership role in the federal government — potentially even NCIS Director.
It fits perfectly with her character. She’s respected, unshakeable, and undeniably leadership material.
Or… an Intelligence Agency Wants Her?
Another popular theory suggests that CIA, NSA, or even a joint-operations task force may try to recruit her.
After everything she’s accomplished, she’s absolutely on their radar.
Why This Ending Makes Sense
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It honors her career growth
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It keeps the door open for crossovers
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It gives her a powerful sendoff rather than an abrupt exit
This theory feels right, which is why fans keep returning to it.
Theory 2 — Kai Takes Over the Team in a Full-Circle Moment
Kai Holman has one of the most emotional backstories on the show, and his growth has been incredible to watch. Fans believe the series could end with Kai stepping into the Special Agent in Charge role.
Why Kai’s Leadership Arc Fits
He’s matured. He’s evolved. He’s found purpose.
Seeing him lead the team would feel like a reward — a full-circle redemption arc with real emotional impact.
Symbolism Fans Point Out
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Kai started the show somewhat lost
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He found direction under Tennant’s mentorship
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Ending with him leading honors their bond
Why This Theory Works
It mirrors classic NCIS endings that pass the torch while honoring character growth.
Theory 3 — Whistler Leaves the FBI… To Stay With Lucy
The “Kacy” fans? They are eating this theory up.
And honestly? It tracks.
Why This Theory Is Everywhere
Lucy and Whistler have faced ongoing struggles balancing their relationship with their careers. The finale could give them the stability fans have begged for.
Whistler Leaving the FBI Wouldn’t Be Random
She’s already shown:
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A willingness to change
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A desire to support Lucy
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A frustration with FBI bureaucracy
Her joining NCIS, or relocating to stay with Lucy, would make emotional and narrative sense.
A Romantic Yet Practical Ending
It’s heartfelt but grounded — exactly the kind of ending the show loves.
Theory 4 — The Team Breaks Up… But On Their Own Terms
Not every ending needs a tragic twist. Some fans believe NCIS: Hawai‘i might wrap up by showing each team member moving forward in their careers and lives.
The “Bittersweet But Realistic” Ending
This theory suggests:
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Jane receives a major promotion
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Kai leads the Hawai‘i office
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Lucy and Whistler choose stability
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Ernie steps into a national cybersecurity role
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Jesse returns to focus on family or opens his own training program
Why Fans Love This Theory
It offers closure without heartbreak — a clean, satisfying finale that respects the characters’ journeys.
Theory 5 — A Massive Case Forces the Team to Make a Life-Changing Choice
This is one of the biggest theories — a finale centered around a massive, season-long threat that culminates in a risky mission.
What Fans Predict
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A threat to Hawai‘i or the Navy
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A deep-cover operation
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A shocking betrayal
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A moral dilemma that changes everything
Possible Endings This Theory Sparks
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Someone sacrifices their career
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Someone is forced into witness protection
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The office temporarily shuts down
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The team splits for safety reasons
Why This Feels Believable
NCIS finales often hinge on high-stakes cases with emotional consequences. This would fit the franchise’s DNA.
Theory 6 — Jesse Boone Leaves After a Final, Emotional Arc
Jesse is the heart of the team — the calm voice, the moral anchor, the solid foundation. Fans think the show might end by giving him a peaceful exit.
Fans Suspect Two Possibilities
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He retires to protect his family.
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He takes a training role to mentor the next generation.
Why This Feels Right
It respects his character. Jesse has always been about service and stability — not glory.
Theory 7 — Ernie Finally Gets the Recognition He Deserves
Ernie is the quirky genius of the team, but fans think the finale could show him taking on a national-level cybersecurity position.
Why Fans Believe This Theory
He’s overqualified, under-recognized, and constantly saving the day behind the scenes.
His Ending Could Involve:
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Heading a major tech division
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Leading NCIS cyber operations
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Becoming a liaison for global intelligence groups
This theory gives Ernie the spotlight he truly deserves.
Theory 8 — Hawai‘i’s Office Is Upgraded to a New National Hub
Some fans think the final twist might not involve individuals — but the entire team.
What This Would Mean
The Pearl Harbor NCIS office becomes:
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A national Pacific operations center
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A strategic headquarters
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A new powerhouse for the franchise
Why Fans Are Into This Theory
It opens the door for:
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Spin-offs
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Crossovers
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Expanded storylines
The NCIS franchise loves expanding, and this would be a perfect setup.
Theory 9 — A Long-Buried Threat From Tennant’s Past Returns
Some viewers believe the finale could tie back to Tennant’s past — a plot thread the show has teased before.
Possibilities Fans Imagine
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A former enemy resurfaces
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A dangerous informant returns
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A failed mission comes back to haunt her
Why This Ending Feels Logical
NCIS finales often draw from a character’s past to create emotional impact.
This would give Tennant a full-circle moment.
Theory 10 — The Ending Will Tie Into the Larger NCIS Universe
With multiple spin-offs, fans think Hawai‘i could end by connecting major storylines from the broader franchise.
What This Might Look Like
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Gibbs or Torres sends a message or request
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Tennant is reassigned to a major case seen in another show
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Hawai‘i’s team collaborates in a franchise-wide event
Why This Makes Sense
The NCIS universe loves continuity.
This theory ties everything together beautifully.
Which Theory Is Most Likely?
Fans overwhelmingly agree that some combination of the theories is probably the real ending. These three stand out as the most probable:
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Jane Tennant gets promoted or reassigned.
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Kai steps into a leadership role.
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Lucy and Whistler choose a stable future together.
These match the characters’ arcs, emotional themes, and the franchise’s storytelling patterns.
Conclusion
When it comes to NCIS: Hawai‘i, fans aren’t just guessing — they’re crafting deeply emotional and surprisingly logical theories that could genuinely play out on screen. Whether the show chooses a dramatic twist, a heartfelt parting, or a massive crossover ending, one thing is clear: the finale will leave a lasting impact.
And honestly? With characters this compelling and storylines this rich, fans deserve an ending that feels both powerful and meaningful.
