NCIS: Hawai’i’ Cancelled Due to Financial and Performance Concerns, CBS Confirms

Fans were taken aback last week when CBS announced the cancellation of “NCIS: Hawai’i” after three seasons. During a press briefing in Los Angeles, CBS executives explained that the decision was influenced by a need to balance costs, ratings, and the overall coherence of the network’s 2024-2025 lineup.

“CBS must maintain a dynamic and engaging schedule,” stated Amy Reisenbach, CBS Entertainment president. “Despite the strong return of our programs post-Hollywood strikes, we face tough decisions to ensure the lineup’s overall cohesion and financial viability.”

Reisenbach confirmed there would be no reconsideration of the cancellation, unlike the network’s previous reversals with the series “S.W.A.T.”

“NCIS: Hawai’i” initially drew an impressive average of 5.6 million viewers with its third season premiere on February 12. Although viewership slightly declined, it generally remained above 5 million, dipping only in episodes six and seven to around 4.8 million. Despite these respectable numbers, the costs of filming on location in Hawai’i were a significant factor in the decision.

CBS president and CEO George Cheeks also noted financial constraints when discussing transitions of other series like “S.E.A.L. Team” and “Evil” to Paramount+ originals, indicating limited slots and budget on the streaming platform.

“NCIS: Hawai’i” aired Mondays at 10 p.m., following the flagship “NCIS” series, which has been renewed for a 22nd season. The timeslot will soon host “NCIS: Origins,” a prequel featuring Austin Stowell as a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, originally played by Mark Harmon.

“NCIS: Hawai’i” starred Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant, the first female special agent in charge at NCIS Pearl Harbor. The series, known for blending military-related crimes with personal drama, featured a diverse cast including Alex Tarrant, Noah Mills, and Yasmine Al-Bustami. It was produced by CBS Studios with Matt Bosack, Jan Nash, Christopher Silber, and Larry Teng as executive producers.//variety.com