Jason Momoa is returning to screens in a way audiences have never seen before. The Game of Thrones star is front and centre in Chief of War, an ambitious new historical action series set to premiere on Apple TV+ this summer.
This isn’t just another period drama. It’s a deeply personal project that brings the rich, untold story of Hawaiʻi’s past to global audiences, with Momoa not only starring but also co-creating and co-writing the show.
Gone is the iconic Khal Drogo look. In the first trailer, Momoa appears in full traditional Hawaiʻian dress — a striking red robe and feathered headdress. The transformation is dramatic. The tone is serious. And the mission is clear.
This nine-part series dives into the true story of Ka’iana, a Hawaiian warrior who attempts to unify the islands before Western colonisation takes hold in the late 18th century.
As the official synopsis explains: “Set amidst the beautiful backdrop of the islands of Hawai’i, the nine-episode series based on true events, follows warrior Ka’iana, portrayed by Momoa, as he tries to unify the islands before Western colonization in the late 18th century.”
Chief of War doesn’t just tell a Polynesian story — it’s powered by Polynesian voices. The cast includes Star Wars legend Temuera Morrison, Kaos star Cliff Curtis, and Luciane Buchanan from The Night Agent.
The creative team includes Momoa’s longtime collaborator Thomas Pa’a Sibbett and writer Doug Jung. Together, they’ve crafted what Momoa describes as a “passion project” — one that honours his heritage and brings authentic representation to the forefront.
The series is uniquely immersive. Much of the dialogue is in the Hawaiian language, subtitled for global audiences. It’s a rare move, but one that’s earning praise.
As one Reddit user put it: “The whole show is in native Hawaiian with subtitles. Such a ballsy and cool move to make and for Apple to greenlight. I’m looking forward to this.”
Another user couldn’t hide their excitement: “Yoooooo wtf is this? This came out of nowhere for me. Hawaiian Apocalypto starring Jason Mamoa? Instant yes.”
And a third chimed in: “Man I am so excited to watch this, I would be excited just for the setting, but it also looks really good and Apple has a very good track record for shows.”
YouTube is buzzing too: “FINALLY a show about the Kingdom of Hawaii!!” “I don’t know who is responsible and keeps pumping these great series out of Apple +, but keep doing what you are doing!”
The visual scope is impressive, but the sound is equally compelling. The score is composed by none other than Hans Zimmer, alongside James Everingham. Expect sweeping orchestral pieces to match the scale of the story.
Apple TV+ has carved out a name for quality. With Severance Season 2, Dope Thief, Your Friends and Neighbors, and breakout comedies like The Studio and Murderbot, the platform is pushing boundaries.
Looking ahead, viewers can expect more high-calibre content in 2025, including sci-fi epic Foundation, sports comedy The Stick, crime drama Smoke, and Spike Lee’s anticipated thriller Highest 2 Lowest.
Chief of War premieres Friday, 1st August on Apple TV+. It’s not just a series. It’s a tribute to history, told through the lens of those who lived it.
