The stars and creative team of NCIS: Hawaii have touched down on Oahu. CBS revealed on Thursday that the latest NCIS spinoff has started production on the Hawaiian island and kicked off the first days with a traditional Hawaiian blessing to pay respect to its host Hawaiian culture. The traditional ceremony took place on Wednesday, June 16.
Stars Vanessa Lachey, Noah Mills, Jason Antoon, Yasmine Al-Bustami and Tori Anderson, as well as the producers and the NCIS: Hawaii, participated in the ceremony officiated by Kahu Ramsay Taum. The Wednesday event also included traditional royal maile leis, the Oli Aloha chant and the Pule Ho’oku’u prayer. Created/executive produced by NCIS: New Orleans executive producers/showrunner Christopher Silber and Jan Nash as well as SEAL Team writer-producer Matt Bosack, NCIS: Hawai’i is set in the Aloha State. It follows Jane Tennant (Lachey), the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor, and her team as they balance duty to family and country, investigating high-stakes crimes involving military personnel, national security and the mysteries of the island state itself. Other Hawaii-based shows, including Hawaii Five-0 have also commenced their production on the islands with similar ceremonies.
Filming for NCIS: Hawaii has officially started in Oahu, and the production kicked off in a truly special way. The cast and crew participated in a traditional Hawaiian blessing, a sacred ceremony meant to bring good luck and positive energy to the project. As one of the most highly anticipated television spin-offs, NCIS: Hawaii is already making waves—not just for its action-packed storytelling but also for its deep respect for Hawaiian culture.
NCIS: Hawaii – A New Chapter in the NCIS Universe
What is NCIS: Hawaii About?
NCIS: Hawaii follows a new team of Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) agents as they tackle high-stakes crimes in paradise. Led by Special Agent Jane Tennant, the series introduces fresh faces and thrilling new cases set against the breathtaking backdrop of Hawaii.
Why Hawaii?
Hawaii offers a unique setting that combines stunning landscapes with a strong military presence, making it an ideal location for an NCIS spin-off. The Pacific region plays a vital role in national security, and the show aims to reflect that reality while showcasing the islands’ beauty and culture.
Filming Begins with a Traditional Hawaiian Blessing
What is a Hawaiian Blessing?
A Hawaiian blessing is a customary ritual that seeks to cleanse, protect, and bring positive energy to a new endeavor. Performed by a Kahu (Hawaiian spiritual leader), the blessing involves prayers, chants, and the sprinkling of salt water to purify the space and those involved.
Why Was the Blessing Important for NCIS: Hawaii?
Hawaiian culture holds deep significance in the islands, and the cast and crew of NCIS: Hawaii wanted to show respect and appreciation for the land and its traditions. By participating in this ceremony, they honored Hawaiian customs and started production with a spirit of unity and goodwill.
Meet the Cast and Crew
Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant
Leading the team is Vanessa Lachey, who plays Special Agent Jane Tennant, the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor. Lachey’s role marks a historic moment for the franchise, as she becomes the first woman to lead an NCIS series.
Supporting Cast Members
The show also features a talented ensemble, including:
- Yasmine Al-Bustami as Lucy Tara
- Jason Antoon as Ernie Malik
- Noah Mills as Jesse Boone
- Tori Anderson as Kate Whistler
Each character brings unique expertise to the team, promising dynamic storytelling and compelling character development.
Filming in Oahu: A Paradise for Production
Why Oahu is the Perfect Backdrop
Hawaii’s Oahu island offers a mix of stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes, and military bases, making it a visually rich setting for a crime procedural series. Previous hit shows like Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I. have successfully used Hawaii’s scenery to create an immersive experience for viewers.
Challenges of Filming in Hawaii
While filming in paradise sounds like a dream, it comes with challenges, including:
- Weather unpredictability – Sudden rain showers can delay outdoor shoots.
- Logistical hurdles – Transporting equipment and crew across islands can be costly and time-consuming.
- Respecting sacred sites – The team must ensure they follow local customs when filming in culturally significant areas.
What This Means for the Future of NCIS
Expanding the NCIS Franchise
With NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles, and NCIS: New Orleans already popular, NCIS: Hawaii expands the franchise into a new geographical region with fresh stories. The focus on the Pacific presents unique opportunities for storytelling and deepens the franchise’s global reach.
Bringing Diversity and Inclusion
NCIS: Hawaii breaks new ground by featuring a female-led team and highlighting Hawaiian culture. The show promises to incorporate more indigenous voices, ensuring that Hawaii’s rich history and traditions are authentically represented.
Conclusion
The start of NCIS: Hawaii is more than just another TV production—it’s a celebration of Hawaiian culture, diversity, and storytelling. By honoring local traditions with a Hawaiian blessing, the cast and crew set the tone for a show that respects and embraces its setting. Fans can look forward to thrilling investigations, stunning locations, and a powerful new NCIS team ready to take on high-stakes cases in paradise.
