A year after NCIS: Hawai’i ended its three-season run on CBS, the state’s film and TV industry continues to suffer a decline in business. Jason Antoon, who played cyber intelligence specialist Ernie Malik on the police procedural spin-off, recently shared a video of the series’ vacant and overgrown Hollywood Film Studio, where shows like Lost (2004-’10), Hawaii Five-0 (2010-’20) and Magnum P.I. (2018-’24) also filmed. “Hawaii Film Studios – Empty and full of weeds,” wrote Antoon, sharing the clip Friday on X.
Hawaii is an expensive location that is harder to fit into continuously trimmed TV budgets, especially in linear TV. Cost was among the factors for CBS’ decision to cancel NCIS: Hawai’i after three seasons, despite being the #12 most watched non-sports program on broadcast, averaging 7.8 million linear viewers and 10M multi-platform viewers (Live+35).
After the cancelation last April, Antoon wrote on Instagram, “This business is brutal and makes no sense. But we had soooo much fun. Love you all and mahalo.” The actor’s latest post comes after Fox‘s Rescue HI-Surf, which also filmed in the Aloha State, was canceled after one season last month. Although CEO Rob Wade said the reason for the decision “certainly wasn’t the locale or the budget,” filming in Hawaii made it one of the network’s more expensive dramas, coming in at close to $4 million per episode.
Meanwhile, Hawaii was passed over as the locale for the next 9-1-1 spin-off, which is instead filming in Nashville, starring Chris O’Donnell and premiering this fall on ABC. On Friday, Gov. Josh Green, M.D. released an intent-to-veto list, which includes HB796, a bill that would sunset tax credits after five years. “This bill would have a significant long-term impact on income tax credits across a variety of industries, including film and television, research, and renewable energy,” said Gov. Green of the veto. “These tax credits are critical to supporting economic development and diversification, particularly within growing and emerging sectors. Categorically sunsetting income tax credits will not only disincentivize future investors from doing business in Hawai‘i, but will destabilize existing businesses that currently rely upon these tax credits.
In a poignant post shared on social media, Jason Antoon, known for his role as Ernie Malik on NCIS: Hawai’i, offered fans a rare look at the now-abandoned Hawaii Film Studio. The clip, which shows overgrown weeds and an eerily silent lot, serves as a stark reminder of the show’s abrupt end and the void left in its wake.
The Rise and Fall of NCIS: Hawai’i
A Promising Start
Premiering in 2021, NCIS: Hawai’i quickly garnered attention for its fresh take on the beloved NCIS franchise. Led by Vanessa Lachey as the first female Special Agent in Charge, Jane Tennant, the series delved into high-stakes crimes involving military personnel and national security, all set against the stunning backdrop of Hawaii.
Unexpected Cancellation
Despite its growing popularity, CBS announced the cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i in April 2024, after just three seasons. The decision left fans and cast members alike in shock, especially considering the show’s strong viewership numbers. Jason Antoon expressed his disbelief on social media, stating, “This business is brutal and makes no sense. Mahalo to all and everyone who supported us – we had soooo much fun.”
The Abandoned Studio Lot
Jason Antoon’s Emotional Post
One year after the show’s cancellation, Jason Antoon shared a video on social media showcasing the deserted Hawaii Film Studio. His caption, “Hawaii Film Studios – Empty and full of weeds,” resonated with fans who had once admired the vibrant energy of the set.
A Symbol of Change
The abandoned lot symbolizes more than just the end of a show. It reflects the broader changes in Hawaii’s entertainment industry. With the cancellation of Rescue HI-Surf, Hawaii is no longer a filming location for any TV series for the first time in two decades, signaling a significant shift in the local production landscape.
Impact on Hawaii’s Film Industry
Economic Ramifications
The end of NCIS: Hawai’i has had a ripple effect on the local economy. The Hawaii Film Studio, which also hosted productions like Lost, Hawaii Five-0, and Magnum P.I., employed hundreds of individuals. With the studio now abandoned, many are left without work, affecting not only the crew but also local businesses that supported the productions.
Government Response
In light of these challenges, Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green announced plans to veto a bill that would have ended tax credits benefiting the film and television industry. The governor emphasized the importance of maintaining these incentives to attract future productions and support the local economy.
The Cast’s Farewell
Vanessa Lachey’s Tribute
Vanessa Lachey, who portrayed Jane Tennant, expressed her deep connection to the show and its fans. She shared her feelings of being “gutted” and “processing” the news of the cancellation, highlighting the profound impact the series had on her life and career.
A Final Sunset Together
In a heartfelt gesture, the cast reunited on a beach at sunset just weeks after the cancellation. The gathering allowed them to reflect on their time together and bid a proper farewell to the series that had brought them together.
Fan Reactions and Legacy
#SaveNCISHawaii Campaign
In response to the cancellation, fans launched the #SaveNCISHawaii campaign, gathering thousands of signatures in hopes of reviving the show. While the campaign did not reverse the decision, it showcased the passionate fanbase and the show’s lasting impact.
Cultural Significance
NCIS: Hawai’i broke new ground by featuring a female lead and showcasing diverse characters and storylines. Its portrayal of Hawaii’s unique culture and landscapes introduced viewers to a side of the islands rarely seen on screen, leaving a lasting cultural legacy.
Conclusion: Remembering NCIS: Hawai’i
The abandoned Hawaii Film Studio stands as a silent testament to the success and untimely end of NCIS: Hawai’i. While the series may have concluded, its impact on the cast, crew, fans, and the Hawaiian film industry endures. As Jason Antoon poignantly captured in his video, the once-bustling set is now “empty and full of weeds,” but the memories and stories it holds will continue to resonate for years to come.
