Apple TV+ honours Chief of War


By Michael Pickard
April 2, 2025

First Look

FIRST LOOK: Jason Momoa stars in upcoming Apple TV+ drama, a series he has also written and executive produced. It is set to debut on August 1, 2025.

Set amidst the beautiful backdrop of the islands of Hawai’i, the nine-episode series is based on true events and follows warrior Ka’iana (Momoa) as he tries to unify the islands before Western colonisation in the late 18th century.

Performed by a predominantly Polynesian cast led by Momoa, the ensemble cast includes Luciane Buchanan, Temuera Morrison, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Cliff Curtis, newcomer Kaina Makua, Moses Goods, Siua Ikale’o, Brandon Finn, James Udom, Mainei Kinimaka and Te Kohe Tuhaka.

Chief of War is a passion project for creators Momoa and Thomas Pa’a Sibbett, who both share native Hawaiian heritage. It is produced by Fifth Season and Chernin Entertainment.

Momoa directs the season finale. Doug Jung serves as showrunner and executive produces along with Momoa, Sibbett, Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, Tracey Cook and Brian Mendoza. Justin Chon directs the first two episodes and is also an executive producer. Anders Engstrom, Jim Rowe, Molly Allen, Francis Lawrence and Tim Van Patten are also executive producers.

Chief of War makes its global debut on Apple TV+ on Friday, August 1, 2025.

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