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“NCIS: Hawai’i” has been canceled at CBS.
The “NCIS” spinoff is currently airing its third season at the broadcast network. The season finale scheduled to air on May 6 will now serve as the series finale.
“NCIS: Hawai’i” was the fourth series in the “NCIS” franchise and is now the third series to end. Both “NCIS: New Orleans” and “NCIS: Los Angeles” ended in the past few years after seven and 14 seasons respectively.
That is not to say the franchise is not still going strong. The mothership series was renewed at the beginning of April. CBS is also prepping a prequel series about a young Jethro Leroy Gibbs, while Paramount+ is readying a spinoff that will see the returns of both Cote de Pablo and Michael Weatherly. Paramount+ and CBS also air “NCIS: Sydney,” which was renewed for a second season in March.
“NCIS: Hawai’i” was also the last scripted series in the CBS lineup awaiting word on its cancellation or renewal. The network has renewed most of its scripted shows, though both “CSI: Vegas” and “So Help Me Todd” were also recently canceled. It was previously announced that “Young Sheldon,” “Bob Hearts Abishola,” and “Blue Bloods” would be ending.
“NCIS: Hawai’i” focused on Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey), described as “the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor. She has thrived and risen through the ranks by equal parts confidence and strategy in a system that has pushed back on her every step of the way. Together with her unwavering team of specialists, they balance duty to family and country while investigating high-stakes crimes involving military personnel, national security and the mysteries of the sun-drenched island paradise itself.”
The cast also included Alex Tarrant, Noah Mills, Yasmine Al-Bustami, Jason Antoon, Tori Anderson, and Kian Talan. “NCIS: Los Angeles” star LL Cool J also made recurring guest star appearances on the show, reprising the role of Sam Hanna, beginning in Season 3.
Matt Bosack, Jan Nash, and Christopher Silber created the series and served as executive producers along with Larry Teng. CBS Studios produced.
CBS has officially canceled NCIS: Hawai’i after just three seasons, leaving fans heartbroken and questioning why the network decided to axe the show. As the latest installment in the NCIS franchise, the series brought a fresh perspective, diverse cast, and exciting storylines. So, what led to its sudden cancellation? Let’s dive into the details.
Why Was ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ Canceled?
The cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i comes as a shock to many, but several factors may have played a role in CBS’s decision. Here are the key reasons:
1. Declining Viewership Ratings
One of the biggest reasons shows get canceled is declining ratings. While NCIS: Hawai’i had a strong start, its viewership numbers gradually dropped over time.
2. Budget and Production Costs
Filming in Hawaii is undoubtedly expensive, and with a large ensemble cast, production costs may have outweighed the show’s profitability.
3. Network’s Strategic Changes
CBS has been restructuring its programming, focusing on shows that promise higher returns. NCIS: Hawai’i might not have fit into the long-term vision of the network.
4. Competition from Other Shows
The TV landscape is highly competitive, and with streaming platforms gaining dominance, traditional network shows face an uphill battle.
5. Scheduling Conflicts
Sometimes, a show’s time slot can negatively impact its ratings, making it a target for cancellation.
Impact on the ‘NCIS’ Franchise
Will This Affect Other ‘NCIS’ Shows?
Despite NCIS: Hawai’i getting canceled, the core NCIS franchise remains strong. NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles, and NCIS: Sydney are still part of CBS’s lineup.
What About the Cast?
The talented cast, including Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant, now faces an uncertain future. Many will likely move on to new projects or even guest-star in other NCIS shows.
Fan Reactions
Fans have taken to social media to express their disappointment. Hashtags like #SaveNCISHawaii and #NCISHawaiiForever have been trending, showing the deep impact of the shows
cancellation.
What Could Have Saved ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’?
Stronger Storylines and Character Development
While the show had a loyal fan base, some viewers felt that the storylines lacked the depth seen in earlier NCIS installments.
Better Promotion and Marketing
A stronger marketing push might have helped attract new viewers and boost ratings.
Crossover Episodes
More crossover episodes with other NCIS series could have increased audience engagement and kept the show relevant.
Could ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ Be Revived?
Streaming Platforms as a Second Chance
There’s always the possibility of a streaming service like Paramount+ picking up the show, as seen with other canceled series.
Fan Petitions and Campaigns
Dedicated fans have launched petitions to bring back the show. If demand is high, CBS or another network may reconsider.
Spin-offs and Cameos
While the main series is canceled, there’s a chance that characters could appear in other NCIS shows.