Fans of NCIS: Hawai’i have spoken, and the message is loud and clear — Commander Carla Chase deserves more than just a recurring role. As the series evolves into one of the strongest entries in the NCIS franchise, it’s time to give this powerhouse character the spotlight she’s earned.
In this deep dive, we’ll break down exactly why Chase should be promoted to series regular, how she strengthens the team dynamic, and what her expanded role could mean for the show’s future.
The Rise of Commander Chase
When Commander Chase first appeared on NCIS: Hawai’i, she immediately brought a spark of intelligence, charm, and authority to the screen. Portrayed by the talented Seana Kofoed, Chase serves as the team’s medical examiner — but her character is so much more than the one-dimensional “lab expert” trope often seen in procedural dramas.
Why Fans Instantly Connected with Chase
Let’s face it — NCIS fans know when they’ve found a gem. Chase’s combination of dry wit, empathy, and unwavering professionalism has quickly made her a fan favorite. She’s relatable, grounded, and often provides much-needed levity amid the show’s intense cases.
Her quick thinking and emotional depth have turned one-off scenes into memorable moments, and it’s clear that the audience wants more of her. Social media is filled with posts celebrating Chase’s scenes and calling for her promotion.
The Importance of Strong Supporting Characters
Every great NCIS team relies on balance — the mix of field agents, analysts, and specialists that keeps the story engaging. Chase brings something special to that balance. She’s not just another expert behind a microscope; she’s a storyteller in her own right, interpreting the silent clues left behind by victims.
Having her appear more frequently would give the show richer storytelling opportunities and deepen its emotional core.
The Power of Representation in ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’
Set in the vibrant and culturally rich backdrop of Hawaii, the show has made an effort to celebrate diversity and inclusivity. Chase’s role, as a confident and capable older female professional in a male-dominated field, adds another valuable layer to that representation. Promoting her would send a positive message about the importance of women in leadership — both on and off the screen.
Seana Kofoed: The Secret Weapon Behind Chase
Seana Kofoed’s portrayal of Chase is nothing short of magnetic. Her delivery balances the scientific precision of her role with the warmth of someone who genuinely cares about justice. Kofoed’s chemistry with the rest of the cast — particularly Vanessa Lachey’s Jane Tennant — makes her indispensable to the ensemble.
You can feel the mutual respect and camaraderie every time they share the screen. That’s not something you can fake — and it’s exactly what the audience wants more of.
How Chase Deepens the Team’s Dynamic
Without Chase, the NCIS: Hawai’i team might seem incomplete. She’s often the voice of reason, the moral compass who helps the agents see the human side of their work. Her perspective adds emotional weight to the show, giving viewers a reason to care beyond the procedural drama.
Room for Character Development
While we’ve seen glimpses of Chase’s personal life, there’s so much more that could be explored. What drives her? How did she end up working in Hawaii? Does she have a hidden past or a connection to any ongoing storylines?
Making her a series regular opens the door to answer these questions and explore her journey more deeply — adding more intrigue to the show’s overarching narrative.
The Franchise Has Done It Before — And It Worked
NCIS history is full of examples where fan-favorite recurring characters became series regulars. Think of Dr. Jimmy Palmer (NCIS), Kasie Hines, or even forensic psychologist Jack Sloane. Each of them elevated the series after being promoted — and Chase could easily do the same for Hawai’i.
Boosting Viewer Engagement and Ratings
There’s no denying that fan-favorite characters can drive engagement. By promoting Chase, CBS could tap into that enthusiasm, potentially boosting viewership and online buzz. After all, loyal fans are the lifeblood of the NCIS franchise — and they’ve made it clear who they want to see more of.
Social Media Speaks Loudly
Just a quick look on X (formerly Twitter) or Reddit shows that fans are already campaigning for Chase’s promotion. Hashtags like #MoreChase and #PromoteCommanderChase are gaining traction, proving that the demand is real.
When the fandom unites behind a character, smart showrunners listen. Remember when NCIS: LA promoted Barrett Foa’s Eric Beale after massive fan support? History could repeat itself here.
Why Chase’s Humor Matters
Every NCIS series needs that one character who can break the tension with perfectly timed humor. Chase nails it every time. Her subtle sarcasm and clever one-liners keep the tone balanced — reminding us that even in the face of tragedy, humanity still shines through.
Her humor adds texture and heart to the show — something viewers love and need.
Expanding the Story Beyond the Field
Promoting Chase wouldn’t just benefit her character; it would enrich the entire series. It would allow NCIS: Hawai’i to explore the procedural world from a different perspective — one that’s grounded in forensics, ethics, and empathy.
Imagine full episodes centered on Chase’s investigations or moral dilemmas in the lab. That kind of storytelling could give the series new depth and longevity.
A Chance to Strengthen Female Solidarity
One of the standout features of NCIS: Hawai’i is its focus on strong women supporting each other. Jane Tennant, Lucy Tara, and Kate Whistler have already established this dynamic beautifully. Adding Chase as a regular would further amplify that sense of unity and mentorship, creating a richer, more empowering narrative.
Timing Is Everything
With NCIS: Hawai’i growing stronger each season, now is the perfect moment to make this change. Fans are invested, the characters are well-developed, and the franchise itself is thriving. Promoting Chase now would give the show fresh momentum and keep audiences hooked heading into future seasons.
The Bottom Line: Chase Deserves the Spotlight
Commander Chase has proven time and again that she’s essential to NCIS: Hawai’i. Her intelligence, humor, and heart bring balance to the show’s high-stakes energy. Elevating her to a full-time cast member wouldn’t just reward a great character — it would strengthen the entire series.
Conclusion
In a franchise built on teamwork and trust, Commander Chase has already earned her place among the best. It’s time for NCIS: Hawai’i to recognize that and make her a permanent part of the family. The audience is ready. The cast is ready. The only question left is — what are the producers waiting for?
FAQs
1. Who plays Commander Chase on ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’?
Commander Carla Chase is portrayed by actress Seana Kofoed, known for her sharp wit and commanding screen presence.
2. How long has Chase been part of the show?
She has appeared in multiple episodes since the show’s early seasons, quickly becoming a recurring fan favorite.
3. Has CBS hinted at promoting Chase to a series regular?
As of now, there’s no official confirmation, but fan campaigns and growing support may influence that decision soon.
4. What makes Chase different from other ‘NCIS’ medical examiners?
Her blend of intellect, compassion, and humor sets her apart — she’s deeply human, not just a background scientist.
5. Would promoting Chase change the tone of the show?
Not at all. In fact, it would enhance the team dynamic, adding depth, warmth, and new storytelling possibilities.
