NCIS: Hawai’i kicked off production of its third season today with its traditional Hawaiian blessing ceremony. Series stars Vanessa Lachey, Alex Tarrant, Noah Mills, Jason Antoon, Yasmine Al-Bustami, Tori Anderson and special guest star LL Cool J participated alongside the show’s producers and crew. Kahu (officiant) Kahu Aukai Kekoa officiated the ceremony, which included traditional royal maile leis, Oli Aloha (welcoming chant) and Pule Ho’oku’u (closing prayer). For the third season, the ceremony centered around the connections that the number three represents with the past, present and future, as well as togetherness, completeness as a team and moving forward as a family, per CBS. NCIS: Hawai’i is heading back into production and is bringing back its traditional blessing.
The CBS show is set to return to filming on Monday December 4 after a traditional Hawaiian ceremony, which is the same way that the show kicked off filming for seasons one and two. It comes ahead of the show’s third season premiere on Monday February 12. Mothership series NCIS is also set to return to production in early December for the same premiere date. The third season of the spinoff procedural will feature LL Cool J reprising his role as Sam Hanna from NCIS: Los Angeles. Deadline reported earlier this year that the rapper and actor would be joining the third season of the show.
The sun-soaked shores of Hawai’i are once again buzzing with energy as NCIS: Hawai’i officially kicks off production for Season 3. The fan-favorite CBS series returned to filming with a deeply-rooted Hawaiian tradition — a blessing ceremony that unites cast, crew, and culture in a heartfelt welcome to a new season. But what exactly went down at this special event? And what does it mean for the upcoming episodes? Let’s dive into everything you need to know.
What Is the NCIS: Hawai’i Blessing Ceremony All About?
Embracing Island Culture
In Hawai’i, it’s customary to start important projects with a blessing, or pule, to ask for guidance, safety, and success. The NCIS: Hawai’i team honors this tradition with each season, showing deep respect for the land and its people.
The Ritual Breakdown
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A local kahu (Hawaiian priest) leads the ceremony.
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Cast and crew gather in a sacred circle.
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Ti leaves, water, and Hawaiian chants are often used to symbolize purification and protection.
Season 3 Is Finally Happening — And Fans Are Ecstatic
Why the Delay?
Season 3 was delayed due to the 2023 Hollywood strikes. But now that the clouds have cleared, production is in full swing. And fans couldn’t be more excited to see Jane Tennant and her team back in action.
What This Means for CBS
CBS is betting big on its NCIS franchise. With NCIS: Sydney making waves and the flagship NCIS still going strong, NCIS: Hawai’i is positioned to be a major player in the 2025 TV lineup.
Meet the Returning Cast for Season 3
Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant
The first female lead in NCIS franchise history, Lachey’s portrayal of Special Agent in Charge Jane Tennant has earned rave reviews.
Alex Tarrant as Kai Holman
The smoldering, tough-yet-compassionate agent brings edge and depth to the team.
Jason Antoon as Ernie Malik
Ernie continues to be the team’s quirky but brilliant cyber-intelligence specialist.
Noah Mills as Jesse Boone
Jane’s dependable second-in-command returns with even more to lose — and protect.
Setting the Scene: Why Hawai’i Is the Perfect Backdrop
Let’s be real — nothing compares to crime-solving against a paradise backdrop. The stunning Hawaiian scenery doesn’t just serve as eye candy; it’s a character in its own right.
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From Waikīkī to the lush North Shore
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Incorporating real Hawaiian landmarks
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Exploring native traditions and military culture
The Emotional Weight of the Blessing Ceremony
More Than Just Ritual
The blessing isn’t just symbolic. For many on the cast and crew — especially those native to or residing in Hawai’i — it’s a spiritual moment that connects them to the land, to each other, and to the stories they’re about to tell.
Behind-the-Scenes Glimpses From the Set
Social Media Moments That Went Viral
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Vanessa Lachey posting an emotional selfie with the caption: “We’re back. And it feels sacred.”
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Crew members showing off lei and ti leaf bracelets.
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The stunning rainbow that appeared mid-ceremony (yes, really!).
What Fans Can Expect in Season 3
Bigger Cases, Deeper Stakes
The writers are promising:
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More military crossover plots
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Personal stakes that hit home
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Unexpected alliances and betrayals
Possible Guest Stars?
Rumors are swirling that fan-favorite characters from NCIS: Los Angeles may make a cameo. Stay tuned.
How the Blessing Grounds the Season
Cultural Authenticity
CBS has been praised for its commitment to portraying Hawaiian culture respectfully. The annual blessing is just one piece of that puzzle.
Team Bonding at Its Core
According to insiders, the ceremony also serves as a bonding ritual for new crew members and a way to start fresh emotionally and creatively.
When Will NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3 Air?
While no official date has been announced yet, it’s expected to return in early 2025, possibly aligning with the spring TV schedule.
Will There Be a Season 4?
CBS hasn’t confirmed anything just yet, but early production buzz and solid ratings make Season 4 a very real possibility.
Cast & Crew Reactions to the Blessing
Vanessa Lachey:
“It’s more than just a tradition. It’s a reminder of why we’re here — to honor this place, tell good stories, and support each other.”
Showrunner Matt Bosack:
“Every season, this ceremony grounds us. It gives us clarity and purpose. It’s how we start strong.”
Why This Moment Matters Beyond TV
Representation Done Right
More than a procedural drama, NCIS: Hawai’i shines a spotlight on Pacific Islander stories, values, and landscapes — and that matters in today’s entertainment landscape.
Conclusion: A Powerful Start to What Promises to Be a Breakout Season
As production kicks off with such a meaningful tradition, fans can expect NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3 to bring more than just thrilling cases — it promises heart, respect, and deep cultural resonance. Whether you’re in it for the action, the scenery, or the soul, this season looks like it’s going to be one to remember.
