Chief of War Jason Momoa headlines Apple TV+’s grand new historical series, a sweeping retelling of Hawaii’s unification that premiered globally on August 1, 2025. With Momoa at the helm—serving as co-creator, executive producer, and star—this project marks a major moment for authentic Indigenous storytelling, cinematic ambition, and the actor’s celebrated career.
The highly anticipated Chief of War kicked off with a double-episode premiere, quickly attracting viewers and critics who praised its cultural depth, rich production, and gripping narrative. Momoa, best known as Aquaman and Khal Drogo, brings fierce intensity and heartfelt authenticity to the role of Ka‘iana, a revered Hawaiian chief at the forefront of the islands’ bloody and tumultuous path to unification in the late 18th century. As the colonization era looms, alliances shift and battle lines are drawn—placing the fate of generations in the hands of warriors determined to secure their culture’s future.
A Triumph of Hawaiian Storytelling
Created by Momoa alongside Thomas Pa‘a Sibbett, Chief of War dives deep into the real-life events that shaped Hawaii’s destiny. The show distinguishes itself by:
- Featuring a predominantly Polynesian cast and frequent use of the Hawaiian language
- Portraying historical realities rarely taught or explored in depth on screen, including the arrival of Western forces and the complexities of Indigenous leadership
- Showcasing Hawaii’s natural beauty, with most filming taking place in New Zealand due to incentives and industry support
Native Hawaiian scholars and cast members have credited the series with being a “game changer,” offering representation for new generations and correcting historical misconceptions.
Release Schedule and Audience Response
Chief of War’s debut delivered two episodes on launch day, with new installments dropping every Friday through September 19, 2025. The nine-episode arc promises epic battles, intimate betrayals, and cultural resilience. Early reviews have highlighted:
- Exceptional production design and cinematography
- Powerful performances from Momoa (Ka‘iana), Luciane Buchanan, Cliff Curtis, and Temuera Morrison
- Visually stunning recreations of Pacific warfare and navigation, elevating the stories of leaders who shaped modern Hawaii
A Personal Mission for Jason Momoa
For Jason Momoa, Chief of War is more than just another acting credit. He calls it the most important project of his career, emphasizing the personal responsibility he feels bringing his ancestors’ stories to global audiences. Momoa not only stars but co-wrote and directed the season finale, ensuring every detail reflects the pride and challenge inherent to representing his homeland on screen.
He has publicly shared how Aquaman’s global success gave him the leverage needed to finally get a project like Chief of War produced at this level. The series stands out as a major milestone—both in Momoa’s trajectory and in the wider movement of Indigenous narratives reclaiming space within mainstream entertainment.
What’s Next for Momoa
With Chief of War now streaming, Jason Momoa’s slate continues to grow. Later in 2025, he’ll appear in the R-rated, live-action/animated comedy Animal Friends, and he’s set for a cameo as Lobo in Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow in June 2026. But for now, all eyes are on his groundbreaking historical epic.
Jason Momoa’s passion and commitment shine through in every frame of Chief of War, making it a must-watch event for lovers of history, culture, and action alike. Have you started streaming it yet? Share your thoughts on the show’s characters, battles, or the untold stories of Hawaii in the comments below!