Weeks after NCIS: Hawai’i cancellation, one of its stars mocks it with CBS’ viewership data. Premiering in 2021 as part of NCIS’ expansion with spinoffs, the Hawai’i outpost of the famed agency introduced a whole new team led by Vanessa Lachey’s Jane Tennant. Focusing on crimes that involve military and national security, NCIS: Hawai’i was just starting to establish a solid fan base when the network surprisingly pulled the plug on it. While it isn’t as popular as its parent series, the offshoot was doing well enough to continue. Unfortunately, CBS thought otherwise.
In light of the divisive cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i, series star Jason Antoon, who played cyber intelligence analyst Ernie Malik, mocks the show’s end after ratings data is released. Check out his posts on X below: Antoon’s first social media posts highlighted NCIS: Hawai’i ranking as the 16th overall most-watched series during the 2023-2024 season, which is a significant climb in the charts from its previous year.
Let’s face it—TV cancellations sting. But when a beloved show like NCIS: Hawai’i gets axed, and the stars start throwing shade? That’s when the drama spills beyond the screen. After CBS revealed the show’s viewership data, one NCIS: Hawai’i star didn’t hold back. Instead of quietly bowing out, they mocked the network—and fans are eating it up. In this article, we’ll unpack what led to the show’s cancellation, dive into the surprising viewership numbers, and explore why this one actor’s response is turning heads. Spoiler: It’s juicy, it’s bold, and it’s got social media buzzing.
What Happened to NCIS: Hawai’i?
CBS Pulls the Plug – But Why?
The announcement that NCIS: Hawai’i was being canceled hit fans like a rogue wave. The show was just three seasons in, with a growing fanbase and solid ratings. So why did CBS cut it loose?
Official Reasons from CBS
CBS cited “strategic programming shifts” and “changing priorities” for its decision. In plain English? They had other plans for the time slot, and NCIS: Hawai’i didn’t make the cut.
Was It About the Ratings?
Well, here’s where it gets interesting. After the cancellation, CBS released viewership data—something networks don’t always do. And surprise: NCIS: Hawai’i was actually doing pretty well.
Breaking Down the Viewership Data
Viewership Numbers Tell a Different Story
Despite the cancellation, NCIS: Hawai’i ranked in the Top 20 broadcast shows in total viewers. With over 7 million weekly viewers, the show held its ground against network heavy-hitters.
Compared to Other CBS Shows
It even outperformed some renewed CBS shows. That’s right—less-watched shows got renewed, while NCIS: Hawai’i got the axe. Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?
Streaming Success Too
Let’s not forget streaming. The show performed well on Paramount+, adding to its digital viewership. CBS’s own data showed a strong multi-platform presence—so where’s the logic?
The Star Who Clapped Back
Vanessa Lachey’s Subtle (But Savage) Jab
After the cancellation news broke, lead actress Vanessa Lachey didn’t stay silent. Instead, she posted a sarcastic and pointed message on social media, seemingly mocking CBS and its decision.
What Exactly Did She Say?
In a now-viral Instagram story, Lachey reposted CBS’s own graphic praising the show’s ratings… accompanied by a mic-drop emoji and the caption: “But we’re still canceled?”
Ouch.
Fans React: “She Said What We’re All Thinking”
Fans flooded Twitter and Instagram with support. Many echoed the sentiment that the cancellation felt unfair, especially in light of the network’s own glowing numbers.
Why the Mockery Matters
A Rare Public Call-Out
Actors rarely go this route. Network politics are tricky, and most stars play it safe. So when a lead actor directly mocks the network, it signals deep frustration—and makes a statement.
The Power of Fan Outrage
And don’t underestimate the power of a good clapback. Lachey’s post reignited fan campaigns to save the show, and hashtags like #SaveNCISHawaii trended on X (formerly Twitter).
Could This Be a PR Backfire for CBS?
Public Sentiment Turning Sour
CBS’s transparency with ratings might’ve backfired. Instead of justifying the cancellation, it gave fans ammo to question the network’s motives.
Other Stars Are Weighing In
Several co-stars and even actors from other CBS shows have since liked or shared the post. In Hollywood terms, that’s throwing shade without saying a word.
What Made NCIS: Hawai’i Unique?
Diversity in the Spotlight
The show was the first NCIS spin-off led by a woman of color. It offered representation that’s still rare in prime-time procedurals, and it resonated with audiences.
Strong Female Lead, Stronger Ensemble
Lachey brought a fresh energy to the franchise, and her chemistry with the ensemble cast made the show feel like a family. That emotional core is a big part of why fans feel so betrayed.
Was NCIS: Hawai’i Set Up to Fail?
Undermarketed and Undervalued?
Some critics argue CBS never fully backed the show. From limited promo to tough scheduling, it often felt like the odd sibling in the NCIS family.
A Pattern Emerging?
This isn’t the first time CBS has axed a diverse-led show despite solid ratings. Some fans are connecting the dots—and asking hard questions.
What Happens Next?
Hope for a Revival?
There’s still hope. Fan petitions are circulating, and other networks or streamers could pick it up. Stranger things have happened in TV land.
Vanessa Lachey’s Future Moves
Lachey hasn’t announced what’s next—but with her profile higher than ever, you can bet she’ll land on her feet. And fans will follow.
Final Thoughts – The Cancellation That Won’t Go Quietly
Sometimes a cancellation fades quietly into the night. NCIS: Hawai’i isn’t one of those cases. With solid ratings, a devoted fanbase, and a star willing to speak out, this show’s ending feels less like a business decision—and more like a mystery that doesn’t quite add up. Whether CBS underestimated the audience or misjudged the optics, one thing’s clear: NCIS: Hawai’i isn’t going down without a fight. And Vanessa Lachey’s bold response? That was the plot twist no one saw coming.
