If you feel like there aren’t enough crime dramas on network TV these days, then you’re in luck: CBS just released the official trailer for NCIS: Hawai’i. This is the fourth iteration of the NCIS series from CBS. It features a brand new team and cast located on beautiful Hawaii and its surrounding Islands solving crimes directly related to the US Naval Forces. The trailer starts with beautiful aerial shots of the Hawaiian landscape. A few seconds in, tourists witness what looks like a small fighter jet flying straight into the side of a mountain and exploding.
Before you know it, Special Agent in Charge Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey) shows up on the scene, ready to investigate the crime. Shortly thereafter we see her discussing evening plans with her two children, hinting that her struggle with work-life balance may be a recurring theme in the first season of the series. The trailer gradually introduces the audience to the other two main members of her team. There’s the tech guy Ernie Malik (Jason Antoon) who specializes in solving crime with his vast IT and computer knowledge.
Then there’s Kai Holman (Alex Terrant), the local cop who can infiltrate people and places that the haoles can’t. Lastly, there’s also Navy Captain Joe Milius (Enver Gjokaj) who spends the entire trailer following Tennant around in a khaki suit making vague threats with a smarmy look on his face. If they’re planning to make him the heel of the show, they’re already doing a great job! NCIS: Hawai’i premieres September 20th at 10 p.m. ET on CBS. It will also be available for streaming on Paramount+. Take a look at the trailer for yourself below.
If you thought the NCIS universe had already hit its peak, think again. The newest installment, ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’, just dropped its official trailer—and it’s got fans hooked. At the heart of it all? Vanessa Lachey, stepping into the powerful role of Special Agent Jane Tennant, the first female lead in an NCIS series. And trust us, she’s bringing the heat. This article dives deep into everything you need to know about the trailer, Vanessa’s groundbreaking role, and why this show is already making waves.
Who Is Jane Tennant?
Breaking the Mold
Jane Tennant isn’t your typical NCIS lead. She’s not a brooding ex-marine or a tech nerd-turned-agent. She’s a smart, determined, no-nonsense boss who’s not afraid to get her hands dirty. And did we mention she’s a single mom balancing national security with soccer practice?
A Female Lead — Finally
This is a historic move for the franchise. After years of male-led teams, NCIS is finally shining a spotlight on a woman in charge. Jane Tennant brings a new energy, a fresh perspective, and a badass presence that feels long overdue.
Vanessa Lachey’s Stunning Transformation
From Host to Hero
You may know Vanessa Lachey from her days as a TV host and reality show queen. But this trailer shows a whole new side of her—tactical, intense, and in control. She’s gone from red carpets to red alerts, and it’s honestly impressive.
Authenticity in Every Scene
Whether she’s commanding her team or chasing suspects through Hawaiian jungles, Vanessa sells it. Her performance feels real—grounded, emotional, and powerful.
First Impressions from the ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ Trailer
Action-Packed from the Start
The trailer wastes no time. Explosions, car chases, high-tech surveillance—this series is going full throttle. You’re immediately pulled into the tropical-yet-deadly world of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service in paradise.
The Beauty and the Danger of Hawai’i
While the setting is undeniably stunning, it’s not just there for aesthetic. The landscape plays a role in the drama, from beaches to secret military bases. It’s paradise with a pulse.
Meet the Team
A Diverse, Dynamic Cast
Vanessa Lachey leads a cast that reflects modern America—diverse, relatable, and multi-dimensional. From tech specialists to former Navy SEALs, her team is stacked with unique characters that fans are already shipping.
Standouts from the Squad
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Noah Mills as Jesse Boone: Tennant’s loyal second-in-command
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Yasmine Al-Bustami as Lucy Tara: Sharp, spunky, and openly queer
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Jason Antoon as Ernie Malik: The quirky, lovable tech genius
A Franchise Evolution
Staying True to the NCIS Core
While ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ brings fresh faces and scenery, it doesn’t abandon the DNA of the franchise. The focus remains on solving naval crimes, teamwork, and that perfect blend of drama and wit.
Injecting New Life into the Series
Let’s be real—after nearly two decades, the NCIS formula could’ve grown stale. But this new installment? It’s injecting some much-needed adrenaline into the franchise.
What Makes ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ Different?
Female Leadership at the Forefront
Jane Tennant isn’t just in charge—she owns every scene. The show doesn’t shy away from the challenges of being a woman in power. It embraces them, showcasing strength, empathy, and leadership like never before.
Hawaiian Culture in Focus
The creators made a commitment to authentically represent the local culture, traditions, and communities of Hawai’i. Expect to see more than just luau clichés—this show digs deeper.
Reactions Pouring in Online
Social Media Buzz
The trailer exploded on social media, trending within hours. Fans are loving the diversity, the setting, and especially Vanessa’s fierce performance.
Fan Theories Already Brewing
Die-hard NCIS fans are already theorizing about crossover episodes, love triangles, and potential villains. The hype is real.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Created by Familiar Names
The showrunners, Christopher Silber and Jan Nash, are NCIS veterans. They know what makes this universe tick, and they’re using that experience to level-up the storytelling.
Real Military Consultants On Set
To ensure authenticity, the production worked closely with military advisors—everything from lingo to tactical moves is spot-on.
Representation Done Right
Empowering Women On and Off Screen
Vanessa Lachey isn’t just breaking barriers onscreen—she’s also setting the tone for what future leads can be. It’s a huge win for representation in TV.
LGBTQ+ Visibility
With characters like Lucy Tara, NCIS: Hawai’i is proudly showcasing LGBTQ+ identities without turning them into stereotypes or side plots.
What We Can Expect Moving Forward
Weekly High-Stakes Cases
From international espionage to local crimes with military ties, each episode promises to deliver fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat drama.
Emotional Arcs That Hit Home
It’s not just about bullets and briefings. The emotional core of the show—Jane’s home life, her team’s struggles—makes it more than your typical procedural.
Final Thoughts
‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ is shaping up to be much more than just a new spin-off. It’s a bold reinvention, powered by a passionate lead, a diverse cast, and a breathtaking setting. Vanessa Lachey’s performance is turning heads—and rightly so. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the NCIS world, this series is one you won’t want to miss.
