A year after NCIS: Hawai’i ended its three-season run on CBS, the state’s film and TV industry continues to suffer a decline in business. Jason Antoon, who played cyber intelligence specialist Ernie Malik on the police procedural spin-off, recently shared a video of the series’ vacant and overgrown Hollywood Film Studio, where shows like Lost (2004-’10), Hawaii Five-0 (2010-’20) and Magnum P.I. (2018-’24) also filmed. Hawaii is an expensive location that is harder to fit into continuously trimmed TV budgets, especially in linear TV. Cost was among the factors for CBS’ decision to cancel NCIS: Hawai’i after three seasons, despite being the #12 most watched non-sports program on broadcast, averaging 7.8 million linear viewers and 10M multi-platform viewers (Live+35).
The actor’s latest post comes after Fox‘s Rescue HI-Surf, which also filmed in the Aloha State, was canceled after one season last month. Although CEO Rob Wade said the reason for the decision “certainly wasn’t the locale or the budget,” filming in Hawaii made it one of the network’s more expensive dramas, coming in at close to $4 million per episode.
Meanwhile, Hawaii was passed over as the locale for the next 9-1-1 spin-off, which is instead filming in Nashville, starring Chris O’Donnell and premiering this fall on ABC. On Friday, Gov. Josh Green, M.D. released an intent-to-veto list, which includes HB796, a bill that would sunset tax credits after five years. “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,” said Gov. Green of the veto. “These tax credits are critical to supporting economic development and diversification, particularly within growing and emerging sectors. Categorically sunsetting income tax credits will not only disincentivize future investors from doing business in Hawai‘i, but will destabilize existing businesses that currently rely upon these tax credits.
A Bittersweet Goodbye From Paradise
The sun has set on NCIS: Hawai’i, and it’s not just fans who are feeling the void. Jason Antoon, who portrayed cyber intelligence expert Ernie Malik, recently posted a moving clip on social media showing the now-deserted studio lot where the magic used to happen. The post wasn’t just a video—it was a goodbye letter drenched in nostalgia and heartfelt emotion. So, what exactly did the clip show? And why did it spark such a wave of emotion among loyal viewers? Let’s dive in.
What Was in Jason Antoon’s Clip?
The Studio Lot—Now a Ghost Town
In the short but poignant video, Jason panned across the vacant lot that once buzzed with activity. The trailers were gone. The lights were off. The energy? Completely silent. It was more than just empty space—it was the end of an era.
Fans React With Shock and Sadness
Within minutes, the clip lit up social media. Fans flooded the comments with heartbreak emojis, nostalgic tributes, and even pleas to bring the show back. Some called it “the final goodbye,” while others reminisced about favorite episodes and scenes shot at that very lot.
Why Did ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ Get Canceled?
A Surprise to Many
CBS’s decision to cancel NCIS: Hawai’i after three seasons caught many off guard. The show consistently held a solid viewership, particularly with the Monday night crowd. So, what went wrong?
The Behind-the-Scenes Politics
Insiders speculate that the cancellation was due to budget constraints and shifting network priorities. As CBS continues investing in new content, some veteran shows—even successful ones—are left behind in the shuffle.
Jason Antoon: More Than Just a Cast Member
A Cast Favorite and Fan Connector
Jason Antoon wasn’t just another actor on the show. He had become a fan favorite thanks to his quirky, lovable portrayal of Ernie Malik. His social media presence kept viewers engaged even off-screen, and this recent video only reinforced the deep bond he shares with the fandom.
His Emotional Tribute
Jason captioned the video with a heartfelt message:
“Mahalo for all the memories. This place gave us more than just a job—it gave us ohana.”
That one word—ohana—says it all. It means family. And for Jason, this wasn’t just a role; it was a home.
The Significance of the Studio Lot
Where Every Scene Came to Life
The studio lot in Hawaii was more than a production site. It was where storylines were born, characters evolved, and relationships (on and off-screen) grew. Seeing it empty felt like watching the credits roll on a favorite movie you never wanted to end.
A Physical Representation of Loss
It’s one thing to hear about a show ending—it’s another to see the aftermath. The empty lot is a physical, tangible reminder that the show is truly over.
The Fanbase: Still Alive and Loud
#SaveNCISHawaii Trends Again
Even after months of cancellation, the movement to save NCIS: Hawai’i remains strong. Jason’s video only reignited the flame. Hashtags like #SaveNCISHawaii and #BringBackNCISHawaii began trending once more, showing just how devoted the fans remain.
Petitions and Letters to CBS
Thousands have signed online petitions, written letters, and even created fan videos urging CBS to reconsider or for another network to pick it up. It’s proof that the love for this show didn’t vanish with the cameras.
Cast Reactions: Not Just Jason
Vanessa Lachey’s Tearful Goodbye
Vanessa Lachey, who led the series as Special Agent Jane Tennant, also shared emotional posts after the cancellation. She spoke about the friendships formed, the growth she experienced, and the heartbreak of saying goodbye.
Behind-the-Scenes Crew Speak Out
It wasn’t just the actors who were affected. Set designers, camera operators, costume teams—all expressed their sadness. For many, NCIS: Hawai’i was more than a gig; it was their livelihood and creative sanctuary.
What This Means for the Franchise
A Shrinking NCIS Universe?
With NCIS: Los Angeles already wrapped up and NCIS: Hawai’i now canceled, only a couple of spinoffs remain. Is this the slow unraveling of the once-mighty NCIS empire? Or just a strategic pivot?
Room for Reboots or Spin-offs?
Many fans are hopeful that NCIS: Hawai’i might live again—whether as a reboot, a movie, or even a limited-series wrap-up. In the age of streaming revivals, anything is possible.
Jason Antoon’s Future Projects
Not Saying Goodbye to Hollywood
Jason may be bidding farewell to Ernie Malik, but he’s not stepping away from the screen. Rumors swirl that he’s already in talks for another major project. His talent and charisma ensure we’ll be seeing more of him soon.
Staying Close to the Fans
Even as he moves on professionally, Jason continues to engage with fans, responding to comments and sharing behind-the-scenes memories.
The Power of a Simple Video
A Clip That Said More Than Words
Sometimes, it doesn’t take a dramatic speech or long letter to hit home. Jason’s short video—a slow pan over a vacant lot—was raw and powerful. It encapsulated loss, gratitude, and closure in under a minute.
Hollywood’s Changing Landscape
Shorter Runs, Faster Cuts
The entertainment industry is moving fast. Even beloved shows face sudden ends. The cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i is just one example of how the industry’s priorities are shifting rapidly.
Fans Still Holding On
Creating Their Own Endings
Fan fiction, tribute videos, and social media threads continue to keep the show alive in spirit. For many, NCIS: Hawai’i lives on in memories—and in the digital world.
Lessons From the Lot
Every Show Ends, But Stories Live On
Jason Antoon’s video reminds us of a hard truth—every show must end. But the impact it leaves? That sticks around. Whether it’s friendships formed, lessons learned, or just the comfort of a Monday night ritual, NCIS: Hawai’i gave its audience something real.
Conclusion: The Studio May Be Empty, But The Aloha Spirit Lives On
Jason Antoon’s clip did more than show an abandoned lot—it captured the emotional aftermath of saying goodbye to something beloved. The legacy of NCIS: Hawai’i will live on in its cast, crew, and loyal fans. And even though the lot is quiet now, echoes of laughter, drama, and aloha still linger in the hearts of many.
