One year after NCIS: Hawai’i came to an end, Jason Antoon is reflecting on how times have changed on the lot where they once filmed. On June 6, the 53-year-old actor — who starred as cyber intelligence specialist Ernie Malik on the CBS series — posted a clip on X of the seemingly abandoned studio, showing overgrown weeds across the property. “Hawaii Film Studios – Empty and full of weeds,” he shared alongside the video. In addition to NCIS: Hawai’i, which was cancelled in April 2024 after three seasons, Hawaii Film Studio — located in Honolulu, Hawaii — was also home to shows including Lost, Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I.
Following the cancellation of Fox’s Rescue HI-Surf, Hawaii is no longer the filming location for any TV series for the first time in 20 years as networks work to keep production costs low. Amid the change, Gov. Josh Green announced his plans to veto a bill that would “sunset” tax credits in the state after five years. His office said, “This bill would have a significant long-term impact on income tax credits across a variety of industries, including film and television, research, and renewable energy,” and “disincentivize future investors from doing business in Hawai‘i.”
In April, Antoon shared his disappointment that NCIS: Hawai’i was coming to an end, writing, “This business is brutal and makes no sense. But we had soooo much fun. Love you all and mahalo.” His costar Vanessa Lachey, who played Jane Tennant on the series, also shared that she was “gutted” and “processing” the news. “This show meant so much to me… and more every day I find, to lots of people. As an AAPI Woman, Wife, Mother, Colleague & Friend, I am more proud than ever to have been your Jane Tennant on TV,” she wrote on Instagram.
A Year Later: The Studio That Time Forgot
It’s been a full year since NCIS: Hawai’i was unexpectedly pulled from CBS’s lineup, leaving fans stunned and the cast reeling. Now, Jason Antoon, who played the beloved cyber intelligence analyst Ernie Malik, is speaking out—and his reflections are nothing short of gut-wrenching.
In a poignant Instagram post, Antoon shared a glimpse of the now-deserted studio lot where the action-packed series once came to life. What was once bustling with production crews, bright lights, and daily scripts is now eerily silent—nature creeping in where actors once stood.Let’s unpack the deeper story behind this haunting farewell, and why the show’s legacy still resonates deeply with fans and its own cast.
Why Did NCIS: Hawai’i Get Canceled?
The Abrupt Decision from CBS
Fans were shocked when NCIS: Hawai’i was axed after just three seasons. Despite strong viewership and a dedicated fanbase, CBS made the abrupt call in 2024. The reason? A mixture of shifting budgets, changing network priorities, and perhaps a desire to refresh the NCIS franchise lineup.
Ratings Weren’t the Whole Story
Although the show didn’t dominate the ratings like its predecessor NCIS, it held its own. Many speculate that internal restructuring at CBS, coupled with rising production costs in Hawaii, tipped the scales.
Jason Antoon’s Emotional Connection to the Set
A Tribute to Memories Made
In his heartfelt post, Antoon described walking through the empty lot as “surreal and emotional.” He reminisced about the camaraderie with his castmates, the daily laughter, and the pride of working on a diverse, location-rich procedural.
“I walked through the old stages today… It’s like a ghost town,” he wrote. “It’s wild to see it all just sitting there. Overgrown. Forgotten. But to us, it meant everything.”
Beyond Just a Job
For Antoon and many cast members, NCIS: Hawai’i was more than just work—it was a family. The emotional bond they formed during their time on set made the abandonment even more painful.
What Made NCIS: Hawai’i Special?
Diversity and Representation
As the first NCIS series with a female lead (Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant) and a prominently diverse cast, the show broke ground. It told stories through a cultural lens rarely seen in mainstream procedural dramas.
Authentic Hawaiian Backdrop
Unlike other shows that fake exotic locales, NCIS: Hawai’i was filmed entirely on location, giving it an authentic flavor that added depth and beauty to each episode.
A Studio Lost in Time
Nature Taking Over
In Antoon’s photos, weeds and vines now creep through what was once a bustling TV production hub. The stages, props, and even signage remain untouched—a haunting visual of Hollywood’s fast-moving nature.
Frozen in a Moment
It’s almost as if someone pressed “pause” and walked away. For fans and cast alike, it feels like time stopped the day the cancellation was announced.
Fan Reactions: Grief, Anger, and Support
Social Media Erupts
Fans flooded Antoon’s comments with heartbreak and nostalgia. Many expressed disbelief that a show with such promise and heart could be left to rot.
“This show deserved more seasons. Seeing it like this breaks my heart,” one fan commented.
The Power of Community
Fan-led campaigns continue to trend online, pushing for streaming platforms to revive the show. While the chances are slim, the passion is undeniable.
Cast Members Speak Out
Vanessa Lachey Shares Her Thoughts
Lachey has been vocal about how NCIS: Hawai’i changed her life. She praised the cast and crew and hinted at her own visit to the now-abandoned lot.
A Legacy Cast Still Carries
From Noah Mills to Yasmine Al-Bustami, former cast members often share throwbacks and behind-the-scenes moments, keeping the spirit of the show alive online.
Hollywood’s Disposable Sets: A Bigger Problem
The Industry Moves Fast
In Hollywood, sets are built overnight and torn down just as quickly. The story of NCIS: Hawai’i is not unique—but it is one of the most visually jarring.
The Emotional Toll on Creators
Actors, writers, and crews invest not just time, but heart into these productions. Watching it all fade into nothing is a common—but painful—reality.
What Happens to Abandoned Studio Lots?
Reused, Rebuilt, or Forgotten
Some lots get repurposed for other productions. Others, especially remote or expensive locations like Hawaii, may remain unused indefinitely.
A Tourist Attraction?
Some fans have suggested turning the NCIS: Hawai’i set into a tour experience, but nothing official has materialized yet.
NCIS: Hawai’i’s Lasting Impact
More Than Just a Show
NCIS: Hawai’i brought cultural awareness, strong female leads, and refreshing perspectives to the franchise. That legacy continues, even if the lot is overgrown.
An Unfinished Story
With so many character arcs left unresolved, fans still hold out hope for closure—whether it’s a movie, crossover, or even a revival.
The Future of NCIS Franchise
Spin-Offs Still in Play
NCIS: Sydney and the original NCIS remain active, and rumors swirl about more international spin-offs. But none have recaptured the vibe of NCIS: Hawai’i.
A Crossover Comeback?
Could the cast return for a surprise NCIS crossover event? It’s unlikely but not impossible.
Jason Antoon’s Post: A Wake-Up Call
Why It Resonates So Deeply
Antoon’s post wasn’t just about a set. It was about loss, change, and how quickly things can fade without warning. It hit home for fans—and for fellow actors who’ve experienced the same.
Moving Forward: What Can Fans Do?
Keep the Conversation Alive
From Reddit threads to TikTok tributes, fans are the heartbeat of the show’s afterlife. Their continued engagement keeps the legacy alive.
Petitions and Campaigns
Want to see NCIS: Hawai’i return? Signing and sharing petitions, tagging networks on social media, and streaming past episodes all make a difference.
Final Thoughts
Jason Antoon’s bittersweet walk through the abandoned studio lot of NCIS: Hawai’i reminds us how fleeting Hollywood can be. A show that brought joy to millions, showcased Hawaiian culture, and pushed boundaries was left behind in the blink of an eye.
But as long as fans remember, share, and celebrate it—the spirit of NCIS: Hawai’i lives on.
