A longstanding hub of Hawai’i TV and film production shows heartbreaking signs of disuse, as the 50th state is confronted with the first time in more than 20 years that it has not hosted a TV series. NCIS: Hawai’i vet Jason Antoon, who played the three-season CBS drama’s Ernie, recently shared a drive-by video of the Hawaii Film Studio in Honolulu, a 7.5-acre lot at the foot of Diamond Head crater that most recently was home to the NCIS spinoff and CBS’ Magnum P.I. reboot.
In decades prior, the lot was home base for nearly a dozen other TV shows — including CBS’ Hawaii Five-0 reboot, Shawn Ryan’s Last Resort and, of course, Lost — plus feature films such as Fifty First Dates and Blue Crush. With the recent cancellation of Fox’s Rescue HI-Surf, which filmed in Oahu and its North Shore, Hawai’i now is hosting no TV production for the first time in more than 20 years. That’s a frightful stat when you consider that film and television productions generated more than $320 million for the Hawai’i economy in 2024.
“We’ve had such a doldrum of no work pretty much since Magnum cancelled, [Disney+’s] Doogie [Kamealoha M.D.] cancelled, NCIS[: Hawai’i] cancelled…,” IATSE Local 665 rep Irish Barber shared with Hawaii News Now after Rescue HI-Surf got the axe. And shows that swing by to film an episode or two don’t provide enough steady work to truly support the local talent pool. (For example, 90% percent of Rescue HI-Surf crew members were based out of Hawai’i.)
In a recent social media post, an NCIS: Hawai’i veteran unveiled a haunting video of a once-bustling Honolulu film studio now overtaken by neglect and nature. The footage reveals overgrown weeds and an eerie emptiness, starkly contrasting the vibrant sets once used for the popular CBS series. This visual testament underscores a broader issue: Hawai’i’s film industry is facing significant challenges, primarily due to the expiration of crucial tax incentives.
The Decline of NCIS: Hawai’i and Its Impact
NCIS: Hawai’i, a spin-off of the long-running NCIS franchise, premiered in 2021 and quickly became a staple of CBS’s programming. However, despite its popularity, the series was canceled in May 2024 after three seasons. The show’s cancellation was attributed to various factors, including financial constraints and a saturated market of NCIS-related content. This decision marked a significant blow to Hawai’i’s film industry, which had heavily relied on such productions for economic stability.
The Role of Tax Incentives in Film Production
Hawai’i’s film industry has long benefited from state-provided tax incentives designed to attract and retain film productions. These incentives offer refundable tax credits to qualifying productions, covering a significant portion of in-state spending. For instance, the Motion Picture, Digital Media & Film Production Income Tax Credit provides up to 27% credit on eligible expenses, with a cap of $17 million per project and a statewide annual cap of $50 million .
However, these incentives expired in 2024, leaving the industry without a critical tool to compete with other states offering more attractive packages. The absence of these incentives has led to a noticeable decline in film productions choosing Hawai’i as a filming location.
Governor’s Efforts to Revive the Industry
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Hawai’i’s Governor has been actively advocating for the renewal and enhancement of film tax incentives. The Governor’s office has engaged with legislators and industry stakeholders to craft legislation that would reinstate and expand the incentives, aiming to make Hawai’i more competitive in attracting film productions.
Despite these efforts, progress has been slow. Legislative sessions have concluded without passing the proposed bills, and the film industry remains in a state of uncertainty. The Governor continues to push for a comprehensive solution that balances economic growth with fiscal responsibility.
Economic Implications of a Shrinking Film Industry
The decline of Hawai’i’s film industry has far-reaching economic consequences. The film sector has historically contributed millions of dollars to the state’s economy through direct spending on local services, employment, and tourism. The cancellation of major productions like NCIS: Hawai’i has led to job losses for local crew members, actors, and support staff. Moreover, the reduced influx of film-related tourism has impacted local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and retail sectors that benefited from the presence of film crews and their fans.
The Future of Hawai’i’s Film Industry
The future of Hawai’i’s film industry hinges on the state’s ability to adapt and innovate. While the expiration of tax incentives poses a significant challenge, it also presents an opportunity to rethink the industry’s approach. Stakeholders are exploring alternative strategies, such as developing indigenous content, investing in digital media, and fostering international partnerships.
Additionally, there is a growing movement to diversify the types of productions filmed in Hawai’i, focusing on genres and formats that align with global trends and audience preferences.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The video shared by the NCIS: Hawai’i veteran serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges facing Hawai’i’s film industry. It highlights the urgent need for renewed support and investment to revitalize the sector. As the Governor continues to champion the cause, it is crucial for all stakeholders—legislators, industry professionals, and the community—to collaborate in finding sustainable solutions that ensure the long-term viability of Hawai’i’s film industry.
