Typically, NCIS: Hawaii, along with the flagship series NCIS, would return for new episodes in the fall. However, due to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, production for the new season was halted, causing an atypical delay. Following the resolution of the strike, CBS announced that NCIS: Hawaii season 3 will premiere on February 12. The show is also expected to return to a primetime Monday slot on CBS, airing directly after NCIS season 21.

Plot details for NCIS: Hawaii season 3 have confirmed that LL Cool J’s Sam will help Agent Tennant and her team on their latest case. Whether this case will then stretch across multiple episodes, thus ensuring he sticks around, remains to be seen. What is clear, though, is that Sam will play a part in Tennant’s initial arc as she returns to work, as Sam will be conducting her final interview.

Regarding the cast members of NCIS: Hawaii season 3, the show’s main cast members are all also expected to reprise their respective roles. While there’s been no official confirmation, it is possible that Julie White and Henry Ian Cusick, two important guest stars who made notable appearances in season 2, could also be returning for the new season. More details will undoubtedly be revealed as the series gets closer to its highly-anticipated return.

NCIS: Hawaii has built a loyal fan base with its sun-drenched scenery, intense drama, and tight-knit cast. Season 3 is on the horizon, and the buzz is electric. If you’re a die-hard NCIS fan or just tuning in, this guide will break down everything you can expect from the upcoming season—and trust us, it’s going to be a wild ride.

A Quick Recap of NCIS: Hawaii So Far

Meet the Team Again

Before diving into what’s new, let’s quickly remember who we’re dealing with. At the center is Special Agent Jane Tennant (played by Vanessa Lachey), the fearless and sharp leader of the NCIS Pearl Harbor team. Her leadership style mixes empathy and precision, making her both relatable and formidable.

Season 2 Cliffhanger Leaves Us Hanging

Season 2 wrapped with unresolved tensions—romantic, personal, and professional. There were cliffhangers, unfinished missions, and team dynamics in flux. Season 3 promises to pick up right where we left off.

New Season, New Vibes

When Is NCIS: Hawaii Season 3 Premiering?

CBS has confirmed that Season 3 will premiere in Fall 2025. Due to the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, the season is shorter than previous ones, with an expected 10 episodes. But don’t worry—less quantity, more quality.

Cast Changes and Surprises

Who’s Returning and Who’s Not?

Most of the main cast is expected to return, including:

• Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant

• Alex Tarrant as Kai Holman

• Noah Mills as Jesse Boone

• Yasmine Al-Bustami as Lucy Tara

• Jason Antoon as Ernie Malik

Could There Be New Additions?

Rumors are swirling about potential new characters being added to shake things up. Think mysterious new agents or unexpected allies… or enemies.

What About Lucy and Kate?

The Fan-Favorite Romance

Lucy and Kate’s romance has been a centerpiece for many fans. Season 3 is expected to explore the emotional depth of their relationship even more. Are we heading toward heartbreak or a happy ending? Only time will tell.

Plot Twists That’ll Keep You Guessing

More Action, More Intrigue

Expect tighter missions, higher stakes, and a deep dive into international conflicts. Hawaii’s strategic location plays a major role in the upcoming storyline.

Personal Arcs Get Deeper

We’ll see more personal development for team members—particularly Jane, whose backstory and parenting struggles continue to resonate with viewers.

Themes to Watch For

Loyalty, Betrayal, and Second Chances

These classic NCIS themes return, but this time with even more emotional weight. Season 3 is leaning into personal decisions and their consequences.

Possible Crossovers in the NCIS Universe

Could We See Other NCIS Teams?

Crossover episodes are always a fan favorite. There’s talk that NCIS: Hawaii might connect with other franchises like NCIS or NCIS: LA, giving us juicy collaborative missions.

Smarter Tech and Cyber Crimes

Ernie Takes the Spotlight

Cyber expert Ernie Malik might finally get more center-stage moments as the team tackles cutting-edge cyber crimes that threaten national security.

Behind the Scenes: What We Know

Production Updates and Filming Locations

Filming is taking place in various Hawaiian locations, capturing the lush scenery fans love. Showrunners have hinted that this season will be visually more ambitious.

Fan Theories Are Already Wild

Reddit & Twitter Are Buzzing

Some fans believe a major character could be written off. Others are speculating a long-lost relative of Jane Tennant may enter the picture. Theories range from outlandish to eerily possible.

Cinematic Evolution

Season 3 Goes Darker and Deeper

From the trailer and early teasers, it’s clear that Season 3 is going for a grittier feel. Expect moodier lighting, more complex dialogues, and emotionally intense scenes.

Why NCIS: Hawaii Season 3 Matters

Representation and Culture

The series continues to highlight Hawaiian culture and diverse characters. Season 3 will likely lean more into this, showcasing the rich heritage of the islands and the challenges of balancing tradition with modern crime-solving.

Spoiler-Free Expectations

No Plot Leaks—Just Educated Guesses

Even though spoilers are minimal, we can expect:

• An emotional rollercoaster

• Career-altering decisions

• A mysterious new villain

• Maybe a surprise death?

Where and How to Watch

Streaming and Network Info

You can catch Season 3 on CBS or stream it later on Paramount+. Weekly episodes are expected to drop once the season begins, keeping fans engaged week after week.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Watch

If you’re looking for a crime show that combines tropical beauty, rich characters, and gripping cases, NCIS: Hawaii Season 3 should be at the top of your list. It’s more than just palm trees and action—it’s about loyalty, family, and navigating the gray areas of justice.

Conclusion

NCIS: Hawaii Season 3 is gearing up to be one of the most emotionally charged and action-packed seasons yet. Whether you’re here for the high-octane missions or the heart-tugging relationships, this season promises something for everyone. With a talented cast, deeper storytelling, and plot twists galore, Season 3 is poised to leave a lasting impact. Grab your leis and get ready—Hawaii is calling, and it’s got secrets.

FAQs

Q1: How many episodes will NCIS: Hawaii Season 3 have?

Season 3 is expected to feature 10 episodes, a shorter run due to the recent Hollywood strikes.

Q2: Will there be any crossover episodes?

While not confirmed, crossovers with other NCIS franchises are a strong possibility based on past seasons.

Q3: Is Lucy coming back in Season 3?

Yes, Yasmine Al-Bustami (Lucy Tara) is set to return, and her storyline will get even more attention.

Q4: Where can I stream NCIS: Hawaii Season 3?

You can watch it live on CBS or stream it later on Paramount+.

Q5: What makes Season 3 different from previous seasons?

Season 3 dives deeper into character backstories, features darker plotlines, and showcases more emotionally driven narratives.