When NCIS: Hawai’i season 3 came to a close, it looked like everything would be alright for the cast of NCIS: Hawai’i. After solving a case and eliminating a deadly bioweapon threat on the island, Kai, Jesse, Lucy, Kate, Jane, Sam, Carla, and Ernie raised a glass of champagne and toasted their success. It was a riveting case and a joyous end. The writers could not have given the characters a better series finale – if that was how it ended.
However, when Jane arrived home from the celebration, her former mentor, Maggie Shaw, was waiting on the couch instead of her daughter Julie. She told Jane that she needed to sit down to hear what she was about to say to her next. Then, the episode ended. It was a terrible ending for a series that would not live on to discover what the former CIA operative was about to say next.
The seriescould have quelled much frustration by simply cutting the final scene of NCIS: Hawai’i.
That said, the series could have quelled much frustration by simply cutting the final scene of NCIS: Hawai’i. The memory of all the beloved characters from the show raising a glass on a beautiful day, celebrating their accomplishments and their success as a team, would have been a lovely picture to leave in the hearts and minds of those who didn’t want to see it end. While cutting the scene may have been extensive logistically, it would have been the right thing to do when bringing NCIS: Hawai’i to a close.
NCIS: Hawai’i has kept fans on the edge of their seats with its thrilling cases, engaging character dynamics, and gripping storylines. But when the season finale aired, many fans felt that one particular scene—featuring Jane Tennant and Maggie Shaw—was unnecessary and even detrimental to the episode’s impact. Would the finale have been better if this scene had been cut? Let’s dive deep into why trimming this moment could have led to a more satisfying conclusion.
The Importance of a Strong TV Finale
A series finale or season finale needs to wrap up the narrative in a way that feels complete and emotionally fulfilling. It should:
- Resolve major conflicts.
- Provide character closure.
- Set up future possibilities if applicable.
- Leave the audience with a lasting impression.
What Happened in Jane & Maggie’s Scene?
In the final moments of the NCIS: Hawai’i episode, a conversation between Jane Tennant and Maggie Shaw slowed down the momentum. The scene felt more like a distraction rather than an emotional payoff. While their dynamic has been important throughout the series, was this moment really needed in the finale?
Why Fans Think the Scene Should Have Been Cut
1. It Didn’t Add Anything New
One of the biggest criticisms was that the conversation didn’t reveal new information. Instead, it rehashed their past struggles and relationship, which had already been explored in earlier episodes.
2. It Stole Focus from the Main Plot Resolution
The finale built up tension leading to an explosive climax, yet this scene took away from that energy. A sharper focus on the resolution of the case and team dynamics would have created a stronger emotional impact.
3. It Felt Like Filler
Rather than adding depth to the characters, this moment came off as filler. Fans were eager to see what was next for the team, but this conversation delayed that satisfaction.
How Cutting the Scene Could Have Improved the Ending
1. A Tighter Narrative
Removing the scene would have allowed the episode to maintain its pacing and deliver a more concise ending.
2. More Screen Time for Other Characters
The finale could have used this extra time to develop other team members’ storylines or provide a more impactful sendoff.
3. A More Memorable Final Moment
Instead of ending on a lukewarm note, the show could have wrapped up with a powerful team moment or cliffhanger.
How Fan Reactions Have Shaped the Discussion
Many NCIS: Hawai’i fans took to social media to express their thoughts. Some felt the scene was unnecessary, while others defended it as a crucial character moment. However, the general consensus leaned toward the belief that a stronger, more action-driven ending would have been preferable.
Could This Impact Future Episodes?
While this finale is already set in stone, fan feedback could influence how future episodes handle character moments versus action sequences. If the writers take note of this response, they might aim for a more balanced approach in upcoming seasons.
Conclusion
NCIS: Hawai’i has done a fantastic job of blending character-driven stories with high-stakes action. However, in this particular instance, cutting Jane and Maggie’s scene might have led to a more satisfying and impactful ending. While their relationship is important, sometimes less is more—especially in a finale that needs to deliver a strong, lasting impression.
