The empty studio isn’t just a sad sight for Antoon, however. Fans took to the comments to join in Jason Antoon’s mourning of NCIS: Hawai’i. “I was thinking about NCIS Hawaii today. It was such a good show on so many levels. Interesting and believable characters. Engaging plots. Beautiful scenery. What a mistake to cancel that show,” wrote one. It’s clear that the show is still on people’s minds.
The cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i by CBS in April 2024 left fans and cast members alike grappling with the abrupt end of a series that had quickly become a beloved part of the NCIS franchise. Among the most poignant reactions was that of Jason Antoon, who portrayed the tech-savvy and endearing cyber intelligence specialist, Ernie Malik. His heartfelt farewell and the show’s sudden conclusion have sparked widespread discussion and reflection.
The Sudden Cancellation: A Shock to All
In April 2024, CBS announced the cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i after just three seasons. The decision came as a surprise to many, especially considering the show’s growing fanbase and its unique position as the first female-led series in the NCIS franchise, starring Vanessa Lachey as Special Agent Jane Tennant. The network cited production costs in Hawaii as a significant factor in their decision, stating, “We had to make some really tough choices this year” .
Jason Antoon’s Emotional Farewell
Jason Antoon, who played Ernie Malik, expressed his feelings about the show’s end on social media, stating, “This business is brutal and makes no sense. But we had soooo much fun. Love you all and mahalo” . His message resonated with fans, many of whom shared their own sentiments of loss and gratitude for the series.
Aloha to the Hawaii Film Studio
In a poignant gesture, Antoon shared a video on social media showing the Hawaii Film Studio, where NCIS: Hawai’i was filmed, now abandoned and overgrown with weeds. He captioned the video, “Hawaii Film Studios – Empty and full of weeds,” highlighting the stark contrast between the vibrant set life and its current state .
The Cast’s Emotional Response
The cast’s reactions mirrored the fans’ sentiments. Vanessa Lachey described the news as “gutted, confused, blindsided,” expressing her deep connection to the role and the team . Other cast members, including Noah Mills, Yasmine Al-Bustami, and Tori Anderson, also shared their feelings of loss and appreciation for the experience.
Fan Reactions and the #SaveNCISHawaii Movement
Fans were quick to express their disappointment and support for the show. A Change.org petition titled #SaveNCISHawaii garnered thousands of signatures, with supporters praising the series for its diverse representation and compelling storytelling. The hashtag trended on social media platforms, reflecting the show’s impact on its audience .
The Legacy of Ernie Malik
Ernie Malik, portrayed by Jason Antoon, was a standout character known for his intelligence, humor, and heart. His role as the team’s tech expert brought a unique dynamic to the series, and his interactions with other characters added depth to the storyline. Fans have expressed a desire to see more of Ernie, with many hoping for a spinoff or appearance in future NCIS series.
The Impact on Hawaii’s Film Industry
The cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i also had repercussions on Hawaii’s film industry. The Hawaii Film Studio, which had been a hub for productions like Lost and Magnum P.I., now stands largely unused. The state’s film tax incentives, which had previously attracted productions, have been a topic of discussion among lawmakers and industry professionals .
Looking Ahead: The Future of the NCIS Franchise
While NCIS: Hawai’i has concluded, the NCIS franchise continues to expand. New series like NCIS: Sydney and NCIS: Origins are in development, offering fans new stories and characters to enjoy. However, the unique blend of Hawaiian culture, diverse representation, and ensemble chemistry that NCIS: Hawai’i offered will be missed.
Conclusion
The end of NCIS: Hawai’i marks the close of a chapter in the NCIS franchise. Jason Antoon’s portrayal of Ernie Malik and the show’s commitment to diverse storytelling left a lasting impression on fans and the television landscape. As viewers continue to express their appreciation and support, the legacy of NCIS: Hawai’i endures.
FAQs
1. Why was ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ canceled?
CBS cited high production costs in Hawaii as a primary reason for the cancellation .
2. Will Jason Antoon’s character, Ernie Malik, appear in other NCIS series?
As of now, there are no official announcements regarding Ernie Malik’s appearance in future NCIS series.
3. How can I support the #SaveNCISHawaii movement?
Fans can continue to share their support on social media using the hashtag #SaveNCISHawaii and participate in related campaigns.
4. Where can I watch ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ episodes?
Episodes of NCIS: Hawai’i are available for streaming on various platforms, including CBS All Access and Paramount+.
5. What other shows were filmed at the Hawaii Film Studio?
The Hawaii Film Studio has been the filming location for productions like Lost, Magnum P.I., and Hawaii Five-0 .
