NCIS: Hawai’i’s cancelation already caused a major backlash against CBS, but now I’m more confused about their decision to pull the plug on the series after learning about their new in-development series. Once the flagship series was established, the network found ways to expand the NCIS franchise by launching several spinoffs. Many of them became successful, and most importantly built a solid fan base. NCIS: Hawai’i was the youngest Stateside local offshoot, only debuting in 2021. But in three years, which includes a shortened final season, even I recognize that it has a loyal and committed following.
I must admit, I’m late boarding the NCIS: Hawai’i train. I have only started watching the spinoff, after hearing great things about the offshoot. Despite this, I have been closely following the uproar that CBS has gotten since NCIS: Hawai’i was canceled. For context, the network also pulled the plug on So Help Me Todd and CSI: Las Vegas, but while I’m sure that there’s also a backlash against them, nothing comes close to the criticism they have gotten for ending the NCIS spinoff.
Alright, let’s just get straight to it. CBS pulled the plug on NCIS: Hawai’i—and I don’t know about you, but I’m still trying to make sense of it. It’s not just the cancelation that stings—it’s what they chose to bring back instead that really has fans raising eyebrows and shouting, “Wait, WHAT?!” Let’s dive into why this cancelation feels like a slap in the face, especially in the context of CBS reviving another procedural show that, quite frankly, didn’t have the same buzz or loyal fan base.
Here’s the kicker: NCIS: Hawai’i wasn’t flopping. It consistently held its own in the ratings, especially considering the time slot and competition. It even pulled in strong streaming numbers and had a solid fan base. So why revive a show with less traction instead?
At the end of the day, canceling NCIS: Hawai’i without a satisfying reason—or a proper send-off—feels like a mistake. When fans invest their time, emotions, and energy into a show, the least they deserve is closure. CBS, if you’re listening… it’s not too late to make things right. Bring back NCIS: Hawai’i. Or at least give us a finale worthy of the legacy it was building.
NCIS: Hawai’i launched with promise. A tropical backdrop, a diverse cast, strong female lead, action-packed plots, and the iconic NCIS formula with a fresh twist. It was everything a modern procedural needed to stay relevant in a saturated market. Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant brought depth, charisma, and leadership. She didn’t just carry the show—she owned it. Her character offered representation, emotional range, and the kind of leadership we rarely see on network TV.
