Apple TV Plus is bringing Native Hawaiian history to the forefront with Jason Momoa’s highly anticipated new series Chief Of War, set to premiere August 1, 2025. The nine-episode historical drama will debut with its first two episodes, followed by weekly releases every Friday through September 19.
The series, co-created by Momoa and longtime collaborator Thomas Pa’a Sibbett, promises to be a sweeping cultural epic—and a landmark in Indigenous representation on streaming platforms.
A Story Rooted in Hawaiian Legacy
Chief Of War centers on Kaʻiana, a Native Hawaiian noble and warrior who returns to the islands after traveling abroad, only to find his homeland on the brink of division. As political tension mounts and foreign influence looms, Kaʻiana joins the fight to unify the Hawaiian Islands before colonization takes hold.
Jason Momoa, who also serves as executive producer, has described the series as a “dream project” and a chance to bring “Native stories to global audiences with accuracy and dignity.”
Ensemble Cast and Authentic Production
The show boasts a powerful Polynesian-led ensemble:
- Temuera Morrison as Chief Kahekili
- Luciane Buchanan as Kaʻahumanu
- Kaina Makua as Kamehameha I
- Cliff Curtis as Keōua
- Te Ao o Hinepehinga in a key supporting role
Filmed in New Zealand beginning October 2022, the production leans heavily into authenticity—with Hawaiian language, cultural advisors, and traditional wardrobe playing a central role in bringing the era to life.
Behind the camera, the show is executive produced by:
- Francis Lawrence (The Hunger Games, See)
- Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, and Erik Holmberg
- Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo (Shōgun) as co-showrunners
- Momoa and Sibbett
Epic Scope, Emotional Core
Beyond its battle sequences and high production values, Chief Of War promises a deeply personal story. Kaʻiana is portrayed as a man torn between loyalty, legacy, and survival—navigating a path between diplomacy and warfare.
Apple TV Plus released the first trailer showcasing sweeping aerial shots, ocean battles, royal court drama, and intense one-on-one combat—inviting comparisons to Game of Thrones and Shōgun.
Momoa calls the project a “cultural event,” positioning it as not just entertainment, but a reclamation of Indigenous storytelling on a global stage.
Chief Of War Premiere Date and Release Schedule
Mark your calendars:
- Premiere Date: August 1, 2025
- Platform: Apple TV Plus
- Episodes: 9 total
- Release Pattern: 2-episode premiere, then weekly Fridays through September 19
This launch continues Apple TV Plus’ trend of spotlighting historical prestige dramas, joining titles like Shōgun, Masters of the Air, and Pachinko.
Chief Of War is more than just another historical drama—it’s a powerful, Indigenous-led series with global reach. With Jason Momoa front and center, and Apple TV Plus backing it with top-tier production values, the series is positioned to be a defining release of 2025.
Whether you’re drawn in by the story of Hawaii’s unification or Momoa’s commanding screen presence, this is a must-watch.
