Based on what I have seen thus far from NCIS: Hawai’i, I understand the sentiment about its unceremonious ending. Jane Tennant is a brilliant leader. Beyond that, its ensemble is diverse, making for better representation and fresh storylines that couldn’t be done by other procedurals that don’t have the same cast makeup. However, CBS Entertainment president Amy Reisenbach has defended NCIS: Hawai’i’s cancelation, predicting that their revamped lineup has a bigger chance of succeeding. Beyond that, other reports include a cost-management drive and the need for stability in light of the uncertainty of Paramount Global, which is being sold.
If CBS is really looking at growing amid a particularly tumultuous time in the company, then how is greenlighting a procedural that has failed twice to get a series order a better business decision than keeping an already established and growing show like NCIS: Hawai’i? The network is trying to get the Einstein revival remake off the ground for the third time. I’m sure it has its appeal, but it’s an odd time to keep investing in something that has been stuck in development limbo for a while, considering what’s happening business-wise to CBS and its larger company.
Let’s be real—network television has a bit of a reboot addiction. And CBS? They’re the main culprit. Now, they’re reportedly developing a procedural remake that has already failed… not once, but twice. You’d think they’d learn, right? But no—this time, they’re doubling (er, tripling) down.
A Brief History of the Show That Won’t Die
The Original Series – A Promising Concept That Missed the Mark
The original version had potential. It featured a compelling premise, slick production, and some notable names. But audiences didn’t bite. Ratings plummeted. Critics sighed. CBS pulled the plug. Strike one.
The First Remake – Flashy but Forgotten
Fast forward a few years later. CBS, perhaps nostalgic or just plain stubborn, decided to give it another go. They rebranded, recast, and retooled everything. But the result? A hollow shell that didn’t resonate. It fizzled out faster than a soda left open overnight. Strike two.
So… Why Try Again?
Nostalgia or Desperation?
It’s hard to tell if CBS is hoping to tap into some elusive nostalgia or if they’re simply out of fresh ideas. After all, procedurals have long been CBS’s bread and butter—think NCIS, Blue Bloods, CSI. So maybe, just maybe, they think this third version will finally hit that procedural sweet spot.
Playing It Safe (Sort of)
Remakes, reboots, and revivals are perceived as “safe bets” in Hollywood. But when the IP already failed twice, how safe is it really?
The Risky Business of Reboots
Hollywood’s Comfort Zone: Recycling IP
Networks are risk-averse. Developing new content is a gamble. Reviving something familiar feels safer—even if it bombed before. CBS isn’t alone in this; it’s a widespread industry trend.
The Brand Recognition Trap
Even if audiences didn’t love the original, they might recognize it. And recognition, in the algorithm-driven age of streaming and social sharing, can be half the battle.
Procedural Formula: A Blessing or a Curse?
Procedurals are usually dependable—crime-of-the-week, minimal commitment, satisfying conclusions. But they can also feel stale if not innovated.
Procedural Fatigue Is Real
Audiences today are spoiled for choice. A procedural has to be exceptional to stand out. Simply rehashing a dated concept won’t cut it.
What Viewers Actually Want
We crave character-driven plots, serialized storytelling, and something fresh. The third reboot attempt better come with more than a shiny title card.
Third Time Lucky? Maybe… But Only If They Fix This
Casting Makes or Breaks It
One of the main reasons the previous versions failed? Weak casting. CBS needs names with draw and talent. Think of what Viola Davis did for How to Get Away with Murder.
The Writing Needs a Makeover
Flat scripts and predictable twists? No thanks. Viewers are smarter than ever. The writing has to evolve. Sharper dialogue, deeper characters, riskier narratives.
Diversity & Representation Matter
TV in 2025 must reflect the world we live in. This reboot has to be more inclusive—on screen and in the writers’ room.
Psychological Impact of Familiarity
Why We Sometimes Root for Failed Shows
There’s a weird comfort in rooting for the underdog. CBS may be banking on that psychology—viewers giving the show one last shot out of curiosity.
Hate-Watching Is Still Watching
Believe it or not, hate-watching boosts ratings. It keeps a show trending. CBS might be fine with that.
Could Streaming Save This Remake?
Not Just a CBS Show—It’s Also a Paramount+ Play
Here’s the twist: CBS might be planning to double-dip with both broadcast and streaming. That dual-platform exposure could keep the show afloat even if it stumbles on TV.
Binge-ability Factor
Procedurals with standalone episodes are binge gold. If CBS plays this right, the show could thrive as “comfort content” on Paramount+.
Data-Driven Decisions: CBS Is Watching You
They Know What You’re Watching (Kind Of)
Networks don’t just guess anymore. They track engagement, watch patterns, social media buzz. If the data says there’s still a pulse, CBS will keep trying.
What Critics Are Saying Already
Preemptive Eye-Rolls from TV Analysts
Industry insiders are skeptical. Many believe this remake will end up exactly where the last two did—on the chopping block.
Some See Potential… Barely
A few critics say with the right creative team, this could work. But it’s a cautious optimism at best.
The Missing Piece: A Fresh Hook
Don’t Just Reboot—Reimagine
If CBS just clones what’s already failed, the reboot is doomed. But if they reinvent the concept, there might be hope.
Add Genre-Blending Elements
What if they added sci-fi twists? Dark comedy? True crime influences? The procedural model is flexible—CBS just has to use that flexibility.
Conclusion: Will CBS Get Burned Again—or Finally Strike Gold?
So, here we are—watching CBS gear up for round three with a show that’s crashed and burned twice already. Bold move? Definitely. Smart move? That’s TBD. What we do know is this: If CBS doesn’t rethink the formula, update the storytelling, and bring something fresh to the table, this remake might be dead on arrival. But hey, third time’s the charm… right?
