NCIS: Hawai’i star Alex Tarrant opens up about what to expect from the season 3 finale, confirming both a cliffhanger ending and the return of a familiar character. The procedural follows a team of agents who deal with new national security issues every week. Sometimes, this includes familiar faces coming back for major events, such as season premieres or finales.
Speaking with TV Insider, Tarrant, who plays Kai, revealed NCIS: Hawai’i season 3 would include the return of a familiar character in its two-part season finale. He also teases a cliffhanger finale while opening up about what his character will do during the double feature. Check out what Tarrant had to say below:
There’s NCIS Elite. There are two special visits. There is definitely a special twist that comes in towards the end. It was a shock to me when I was reading the scripts, that’s for sure. [The finale] most definitely … ends on a cliffhanger. Kai actually hasn’t had very many fights this season, but in the finale, we really get to see something significant within his physical capability. [He will be] looking after the team and trying to be a good teammate.
Let’s face it—NCIS: Hawai’i knows how to keep us hooked. Just when you think you’ve figured it all out, boom! The writers throw a curveball. And Season 3? It’s gearing up to deliver one of the biggest cliffhangers in the franchise’s history. But what’s got fans really buzzing? A star just teased a MAJOR character return that could shake the team to its core.
NCIS: Hawai’i – A Quick Refresher
What Is NCIS: Hawai’i All About?
For those late to the party, NCIS: Hawai’i is the island-based spin-off of the iconic NCIS franchise. With Special Agent Jane Tennant (played by Vanessa Lachey) leading the charge, the show blends sun, surf, and serious crime-solving.
Season 3 At A Glance
Season 3 has taken us through undercover missions, personal dilemmas, and inter-agency conflicts. From stolen Navy tech to international espionage, this season didn’t hold back.
Season 3 Finale: What We Know So Far
A Cliffhanger Is Coming
The NCIS: Hawai’i cast and crew have been tight-lipped, but a recent interview with one of the show’s stars hinted at a “massive cliffhanger” that will leave fans desperate for Season 4.
A Returning Face?
Even juicier? That same interview teased the return of a character we thought was gone for good. This twist has the fandom in overdrive.
Who Could Be Returning? Let’s Speculate
1. Jason Antoon as Ernie Malik – More Than Comic Relief?
Could Ernie find himself in deeper waters than ever before?
2. Alex Tarrant as Kai Holman – Family Trouble Resurfaces
Has Kai’s complicated past returned to haunt him?
3. Noah Mills as Jesse Boone – A Secret He’s Hiding?
Could Jesse’s old partner or nemesis make a surprise appearance?
Behind The Scenes: What the Cast Is Saying
Vanessa Lachey Speaks Out
Vanessa Lachey recently shared in a behind-the-scenes clip, “This finale is going to leave you speechless. I read the script and literally dropped it.”
A Cryptic Instagram Post?
One cast member posted a cryptic message with the caption: “They’re back. You won’t believe who.” Of course, fans instantly started decoding clues.
Plot Threads That Could Set Up the Cliffhanger
1. Tennant’s Secret Mission
Could her covert op go sideways?
2. A Betrayal Within the Team
Someone’s loyalty is in question… but who?
3. A Shocking Arrest
One of their own might end up in cuffs.
Fan Theories You Need to Know
Theory #1: A Fake Death Exposed
Some believe a character presumed dead might return alive and well.
Theory #2: Crossovers Are Coming
Fans speculate that characters from NCIS or NCIS: LA could pop in to set up a multi-show crossover.
Theory #3: The Mole Is Back
Remember the mole subplot from Season 2? What if it was never fully resolved?
Why This Cliffhanger Matters
This isn’t just any season finale. With the franchise evolving and viewers craving high-stakes drama, this cliffhanger could reshape everything moving forward.
Character Development Leading Up To The Finale
Jane Tennant – Tested Like Never Before
From being a leader to a mother, Tennant’s journey has been intense. This finale could push her past the edge.
Jesse Boone – Trust Issues Arise
With trust on the line, Jesse’s role may be pivotal to how Season 3 wraps up.
Lucy & Whistler – A Love Tested
Could this couple survive another shake-up?
What the Finale Could Set Up for Season 4
Expect higher stakes, deeper mysteries, and possibly… a new villain lurking in the shadows.
The Power of a Tease: Why the Buzz Is Working
Cliffhangers and character teases aren’t just plot tools—they’re marketing gold. They fuel social media, keep fan pages buzzing, and ensure loyal viewers return.
Social Media Reactions – Fans Are Losing It
Twitter, TikTok, Reddit—you name it. The fandom is lit up with theories, wishlists, and reactions to every tiny tease dropped by the cast.
Will There Be A Season 4?
While nothing’s 100% confirmed, strong ratings and cliffhanger setups all but guarantee we’re heading back to paradise soon.
Final Prediction: Who’s Coming Back?
We’re calling it now: Expect a jaw-dropping return from a character who once walked away—but has unfinished business.
Conclusion: Buckle Up for the Ride
The NCIS: Hawai’i Season 3 finale isn’t just another episode—it’s a game-changer. Between the teased cliffhanger, a shocking return, and all the unanswered questions, the show is setting itself up for one of its most memorable moments ever. If you’ve been watching casually, now’s the time to tune in, buckle up, and brace for impact.
