CBS dealt a shocking blow to fans last week when they announced the cancellation of “NCIS: Hawai’i,” the newest addition to the network’s “NCIS” franchise, after just three seasons. At a press briefing in Los Angeles, CBS executives cited a combination of factors, including cost, ratings, and the overall cohesion of the network’s schedule for the 2024-2025 season, as reasons behind the decision.
CBS Entertainment president Amy Reisenbach emphasized the need to keep the schedule fresh and maintain momentum, stating, “We had to make some really tough choices this year.” Despite the show’s strong opening with an average of 5.6 million viewers for Season 3, the series struggled to maintain those numbers, particularly considering its filming location in Hawai’i, which incurred significant expenses.
When asked about the possibility of the show being revived, Reisenbach firmly stated that there were no plans for an “uncancellation,” unlike previous instances with shows like “S.W.A.T.” Financial considerations also played a role in the fate of other CBS series, such as “S.E.A.L. Team” and “Evil,” which transitioned to become Paramount+ originals due to budget constraints.
With “NCIS: Hawai’i” exiting the primetime slot, the network announced its replacement: “NCIS: Origins,” a new prequel series starring Austin Stowell as a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, the iconic character originally portrayed by Mark Harmon. This decision marks a strategic shift for CBS, leveraging the success of its flagship series, “NCIS,” which has been renewed for a 22nd season.
“NCIS: Hawai’i” followed the story of Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey), the first female special agent in charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor, as she and her team tackled high-stakes crimes while navigating personal and professional challenges. The show boasted a talented ensemble cast, including Alex Tarrant, Noah Mills, Yasmine Al-Bustami, and others, with Matt Bosack, Jan Nash, Christopher Silber, and Larry Teng serving as executive producers.
Despite its cancellation, “NCIS: Hawai’i” made a mark with its portrayal of diverse characters and intriguing storylines, leaving fans saddened by its premature end.
