While it’s been months since the series ended, there is still a buzz about the controversial cancelation of NCIS: Hawai’i. CBS launched the series in 2021 and introduced Vanessa Lachey’s Jane Tennant. Lachey’s character was the first female and Asian-American lead in the NCIS franchise, breaking ground for the police procedural that has become an institution throughout its 21 years on television. The cast included a lot of diversity, making it truly unique within the franchise. All these positive qualities made the shocking cancelation of NCIS: Hawai’i ahead of season 4 all the more devastating for its dedicated fan base.
Let’s be real—NCIS: Hawaii had us hooked. From intense crime-solving to stunning Hawaiian backdrops, it was a fresh spin on a beloved franchise. But then… that ending. Fans were left scratching their heads, yelling at their screens, and firing off hot takes on social media. But here’s the kicker: it didn’t have to end like that. One small, smart change could’ve turned a disappointing finale into a moment of TV greatness.
Many fans jumped into action following the cancelation, even launching a petition to save NCIS: Hawai’i. Their efforts were hardly for naught, considering NCIS’ parent network, CBS, decided to revive Shermar Moore’s canceled S.W.A.T. series on two occasions. The news of NCIS: Hawai’i’s cancelation came just three weeks after filming wrapped up, and the timing significantly impacted the NCIS: Hawai’i season 3 capper, which defaulted to the series ending following the cancelation. The NCIS: Hawai’i finale wrapped up with a major cliffhanger, which was a massive blow to those already fretting about the series’ end.
Let’s face it—NCIS: Hawaii didn’t fail because the story was bad. It failed because it didn’t end. That’s the real letdown. But one small tweak—just a tiny narrative gesture—could’ve made all the difference. Fans weren’t asking for fireworks. They were asking to feel something. And that one simple change? It could’ve done just that.
