Hawaii is now officially the fourth location to get its own NCIS franchise as the new season gets underway tonight. NCIS: Hawai’i starts on CBS at 10pm ET/PT and will air weekly on Mondays. The new series follows in the footsteps as NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans. NCIS as a franchise is itself a spin-off from the U.S. Navy themed legal drama JAG. The new show follows agents from the fictional Naval Criminal Investigative Service who are based out of the Pearl Harbor Field Office, investigating crimes related to the military and national security. The new season, starting tonight (September 20) features actress and model Vanessa Lachey in the lead role — but who does she play and who’s joining her in the cast? Here’s all of the core cast members for the new CBS show NCIS: Hawai’i.
Vanessa Lachey
Former beauty queen Lachey plays Jane Tennant, the first female Special Agent in Charge of the NCIS: Pearl. Jane has two kids, Julie and Alex Tennant. Lachey is a former beauty pageant winner-turned pageant host. She’s starred in television shows like Dads, Truth Be Told and Dancing with the Stars.
When it comes to crime-fighting with an island twist, ‘NCIS Hawai’i’ brings heat, heart, and heroics — all led by the dynamic Vanessa Lachey. But she’s not doing it alone. Surrounding her is a vibrant, talented ensemble that brings depth and energy to every episode. Curious about who’s who? Let’s dive into the tropical world of the ‘NCIS Hawai’i’ cast and see who’s making waves on this action-packed series.
Meet the Stars of ‘NCIS Hawai’i’
Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant – The Trailblazing Team Leader
Vanessa Lachey made history as the first female lead in the NCIS franchise, and she nails the role. Jane Tennant is a special agent in charge of the Pearl Harbor field office — balancing her career, motherhood, and relentless dedication to justice.
Why Vanessa Lachey Is Perfect for Jane Tennant
Vanessa brings a mix of warmth, strength, and relatability. You believe her when she’s tough in the interrogation room, and you root for her during vulnerable family moments. She’s not just leading the cast — she’s setting the tone.
Alex Tarrant as Kai Holman – The Island Native With Layers
Alex Tarrant plays Kai Holman, a local boy with a complicated past and a deep connection to Hawai’i. He’s the kind of guy who knows everyone — and probably knows their secrets too.
The Emotional Core of the Team
Kai adds depth to the show. He’s not just a muscle guy or a token local — he’s layered, thoughtful, and grappling with legacy and loyalty. And let’s be honest: Tarrant’s charm doesn’t hurt.
Noah Mills as Jesse Boone – The Right-Hand Man
Noah Mills plays Jesse Boone, the former big-city detective who’s now Jane Tennant’s go-to guy. He’s logical, calm under pressure, and has a dry sense of humor that brings balance to the drama.
From Runways to Run-Ins With Crime
Before NCIS, Noah was a model — but don’t let that fool you. He brings serious grit to the role, making Jesse one of the show’s most grounded characters.
Yasmine Al-Bustami as Lucy Tara – The Fierce Field Agent
Yasmine Al-Bustami lights up the screen as Lucy Tara, a bold, clever, and energetic agent with a “get it done” attitude. She’s fearless in the field and refreshingly honest in her personal life.
Breaking Barriers and Winning Hearts
Lucy’s relationship with FBI agent Kate Whistler adds an important layer of LGBTQ+ representation, and fans adore her firecracker spirit.
Jason Antoon as Ernie Malik – The Quirky Cyber Genius
Jason Antoon brings levity and tech wizardry as Ernie Malik, the team’s cybersecurity and intelligence analyst. He’s like a Hawaiian island version of Penelope Garcia from the ‘Criminal Minds’ universe.
Geeky, Good-Natured, and a Fan Favorite
Ernie’s charm lies in his ability to mix brilliance with awkward hilarity. He’s also a loyal friend and always down for a laugh — even in tense moments.
Tori Anderson as Kate Whistler – The FBI Wild Card
Tori Anderson plays Kate Whistler, an FBI agent who often walks the line between ally and adversary. Her on-again, off-again relationship with Lucy Tara keeps viewers invested.
Layers of Loyalty and Love
Kate starts off tough and calculating but grows more vulnerable and real as the series progresses. Anderson nails the duality of strength and softness.
Sharif Atkins as Norman ‘Boom Boom’ Gates – Recurring, But Unforgettable
If you’re a fan of Sharif Atkins from ‘ER’ or ‘White Collar,’ you’ll love seeing him as Boom Boom Gates, a military liaison who pops in with strategic advice and comic relief.
How This Cast Brings ‘NCIS Hawai’i’ to Life
Chemistry That Feels Real
One of the biggest reasons this cast clicks? The chemistry. Whether it’s the professional respect between Jane and Jesse, the romantic sparks between Lucy and Kate, or the sibling-like rivalry between Kai and Ernie — it all just works.
Stellar Casting Choices and Representation
‘NCIS Hawai’i’ breaks ground in multiple ways — from casting a female lead of mixed heritage to showcasing LGBTQ+ relationships and authentically representing the culture of the islands.
The Island Is a Character Too
The beautiful setting isn’t just eye candy — it shapes the story. From volcanic backdrops to local community ties, Hawai’i breathes life into every scene, and the cast mirrors that authenticity.
Fun Facts About the Cast You Didn’t Know
Vanessa Lachey Was Almost on a Different NCIS Show
Yep — rumor has it she originally auditioned for another NCIS spin-off. Clearly, fate had bigger (and better) island plans for her.
Alex Tarrant Is a Rising Star in Hollywood
The New Zealand native is racking up roles outside NCIS — including Amazon’s ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.’ Keep an eye on him!
Jason Antoon Writes Comedy Too
When he’s not playing a hacker, Antoon is writing scripts and comedy sketches — his talents go far beyond the keyboard.
Why ‘NCIS Hawai’i’ Cast Is One of the Franchise’s Best
Bold, Fresh, and Fully Engaging
This isn’t your typical procedural lineup. Every character brings something different to the table, and that diversity makes the show feel current and compelling.
Building a Family, Not Just a Task Force
The bond between these agents goes beyond solving crimes. They show up for each other emotionally — and it’s that heart that keeps viewers coming back.
Conclusion: A Cast That Makes Waves — On and Off Screen
The ‘NCIS Hawai’i’ cast isn’t just a group of actors reading lines. They’re a cohesive, compelling team that brings humanity, humor, and high-stakes drama to every episode. Vanessa Lachey may be the face of the show, but it’s this tight-knit ensemble that makes it soar. Whether you’re a die-hard NCIS fan or a casual viewer, there’s no denying that this crew brings the aloha spirit — and the action — week after week.
