As has been a tradition with other shows that filmed in Hawaii (like Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0), production began for the latest NCIS spinoff with a blessing. NCIS: Hawai’i, premiering this fall on CBS and airing Mondays at 10/9c, kicked off production on its first season at Mokulē‘Ia Beach on Oahu with a traditional Hawaiian blessing in honor of its host Hawaiian culture on Wednesday, June 16. It was held in line with the same filming safety protocols in place for the series; as you can see in the photos, everyone’s wearing masks.
Series stars Vanessa Lachey, Noah Mills, Jason Antoon, Yasmine Al-Bustami, and Tori Anderson, and the producers and the crew participated. Kahu (Officiant) Ramsay Taum officiated the ceremony, which included traditional royal maile leis, Oli Aloha (welcoming chant), and Pule Ho’oku’u (closing prayer). To honor the drama’s first season, the ceremony focused on “the constant motion of the ocean and how the moving ocean waters, driven by the winds and tides, connects the entire planet.”
NCIS: Hawai’i follows the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor, Jane Tennant (Lachey), and her team of specialists. Tennant has thrived and risen through the ranks with her confidence and strategy. Scroll down to take a look at photos from the blessing ceremony. Director of photography Yasu Tanida, Tori Anderson, Jason Antoon, Noah Mills, Yasmine Al-Bustami, Vanessa Lachey, Kahu (Officiant) Ramsey Taum, executive producer/director Larry Teng, executive producer Christopher Silber, line producer Randy Sutter, co-executive producer Tim Andrew, and unit production manager Eric Hays.
A Heartfelt Start to a New Chapter in Paradise
The cameras are rolling once again in paradise. But before the action scenes and plot twists of NCIS: Hawai’i return to our screens, the cast and crew took part in something far deeper — a traditional Hawaiian blessing to honor the land, the people, and the work ahead. It’s not just a show; it’s a legacy that begins with reverence. Let’s dive into how this beloved crime series kicked off its next season — the Hawaiian way.
What Is a Traditional Hawaiian Blessing?
Respect for the Land and Spirit
A traditional Hawaiian blessing, or “pule”, is more than just ceremonial. It’s a spiritual practice meant to cleanse and purify, inviting positive energy, protection, and guidance. It’s rooted in deep respect for nature (‘āina’) and ancestral spirits.
Why It Matters for Productions in Hawai’i
In a place rich with cultural identity, productions that begin with a blessing show humility and connection to the islands. It’s a way to gain the trust of locals, foster unity within the crew, and embrace the island’s mana — or spiritual energy.
NCIS: Hawai’i – Season Kickoff Ceremony
The Blessing Marks the Start of Filming
The blessing for NCIS: Hawai’i was held on-location, surrounded by lush greenery and sacred Hawaiian land. Cast and crew gathered in quiet reflection as Kahu (Hawaiian priest) led the blessing, chanting prayers in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, the Hawaiian language.
Who Was There?
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Vanessa Lachey, who plays Special Agent Jane Tennant, was front and center.
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Executive producers, writers, and crew members formed a full-circle of unity.
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Local Hawaiian cultural advisors participated, ensuring authenticity.
The Deeper Meaning Behind the Blessing
A Pause Before the Storm
Even in a fast-paced industry like television, this ceremony reminds everyone to slow down and breathe. The blessing acts as a reset — grounding everyone in purpose, gratitude, and awareness.
Connecting to the Community
By honoring tradition, NCIS: Hawai’i builds strong ties to local communities. It says, “We’re not just filming here — we’re part of this space.” That simple act speaks volumes.
Why Hollywood Is Embracing Island Traditions
Authenticity Is the New Gold Standard
Audiences crave realness. Shows like NCIS: Hawai’i go beyond storytelling when they involve cultural practices. It reflects a shift in Hollywood toward mindful, inclusive production.
Better Energy, Better Production
Crew members often say the blessing “sets the tone” for a smooth shoot. Call it superstition or spiritual clarity, but many believe that acknowledging the island brings good vibes and better results.
Cultural Advisors Are Now Essential
No More Cultural Appropriation
Gone are the days of Hollywood missteps. Advisors ensure symbols, language, and rituals are handled with accuracy and respect. NCIS: Hawai’i has set the standard in involving experts from day one.
Behind the Scenes with Advisors
From costume design to script details, cultural advisors are embedded in every step — giving the show its authentic Hawaiian essence.
Cast & Crew Speak Out
Vanessa Lachey’s Emotional Reaction
Lachey shared, “This blessing grounds me. It makes the work we do feel sacred and intentional.”
Crew Members Reflect
A lighting tech remarked, “You walk away feeling lighter. Like you’re part of something bigger.”
This isn’t just PR fluff — these are heartfelt testimonies about the power of connection.
Hawai’i Isn’t Just a Backdrop — It’s a Character
Letting the Land Tell the Story
In NCIS: Hawai’i, the islands themselves breathe life into every episode. The blessing reaffirms the belief that Hawai’i isn’t just scenery; it’s soul.
What’s Coming Next in NCIS: Hawai’i
Season Updates Post-Blessing
With production officially underway, fans can expect:
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More high-stakes action and undercover missions
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Deeper character arcs — especially for Tennant
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New guest stars, including some surprise cameos
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Expanded storylines that highlight Hawaiian culture and values
Representation Done Right
A Step Toward Inclusive Storytelling
By embracing Hawaiian tradition, the show champions indigenous visibility and authentic voices. It’s not about box-checking diversity — it’s about living it.
Social Media Is Buzzing
Fans Applaud the Blessing
Thousands took to X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram to celebrate the blessing:
“This is how you do it right. Mahalo, NCIS: Hawai’i!”
“So much respect for this show’s attention to culture!”
“Can we just talk about how powerful that blessing looked? Gave me chills!”
Setting a Standard for Other Productions
Could This Be a New Hollywood Norm?
More shows filmed in culturally rich regions are expected to follow suit — acknowledging indigenous practices as part of standard production protocol.
It’s more than good optics — it’s the right thing to do.
Navigating Cultural Integrity in Media
A Roadmap for Respectful Filmmaking
Here’s what NCIS: Hawai’i gets right:
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Engages local leaders and elders
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Implements blessings and traditions with care
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Uses language correctly
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Elevates local talent
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Listens first, acts second
Why Viewers Should Care
It’s Bigger Than TV
When a popular show embraces culture with reverence and authenticity, it sets a ripple effect. Viewers become curious, respectful, and informed — and that’s how real change begins.
Final Thoughts: Culture First, Always
In a world often rushing past tradition for ratings, NCIS: Hawai’i takes the high road — pausing for a moment of stillness and spirituality. This blessing wasn’t for show; it was a powerful reminder that every story begins with the land beneath your feet and the people who walked it first. So next time you catch an episode, remember: behind every scene lies a ceremony of purpose.
