Chief of War (2025): Jason Momoa Leads Epic Hawaiian Saga – Cast, Plot, Release Date & More on Apple TV+

Chief of War – Jason Momoa Brings Hawaii’s Fiery Past to Life on Apple TV+

Prepare for Battle: “Chief of War” Premieres August 1, 2025

Jason Momoa is heading back to his roots—both literally and figuratively—in the epic historical drama Chief of War, an Apple TV+ original series set to premiere on August 1, 2025. Created by Momoa and Thomas Pa'a Sibbett, this nine-episode miniseries plunges audiences into the heart of 18th-century Hawaii, a time of fierce conflict, shifting alliances, and the dramatic unification of the islands.

The Story: A Warrior’s Crossroads

At the core of Chief of War is Kaʻiana, a Native Hawaiian noble warrior (played by Momoa himself) who leaves his homeland only to return and find the islands engulfed in war. What begins as a patriotic duty soon becomes a personal reckoning, as Kaʻiana joins the campaign for unification under Kamehameha I—until he ultimately rebels.

The series dramatizes the real-life events that led to the unification of Hawaii from 1782 to 1810. Known as the “Prince of Kauaʻi” and one of the most famous Hawaiians of his time, Kaʻiana’s story is finally being brought to screen in a tale that blends political intrigue, indigenous culture, and bone-crushing battle sequences.

Cast & Characters

The series boasts an all-star cast rooted in Polynesian representation and authenticity:

• Jason Momoa as Kaʻiana – A conflicted warrior torn between loyalty and liberation.

• Temuera Morrison as Chief Kahekili – A powerful ruler and fierce rival.

• Kaina Makua as Kamehameha I – The eventual unifier of the Hawaiian Islands.

• Luciane Buchanan as Kaʻahumanu – A key figure in Hawaii’s political evolution.

• Cliff Curtis, Te Kohe Tuhaka, Mainei Kinimaka, and others round out the impressive ensemble portraying real figures from Hawaiian history.

Episode Breakdown & Release Schedule

Directed by Justin Chon and others, Chief of War will release episodes weekly following a two-episode premiere. Here’s

what’s coming:

1. “The Chief of War” – Aug 1

2. “Changing Tides” – Aug 1

3. “City of Flowers” – Aug 8

4. “Ciudad De Flores, Part II” – Aug 15

5. “The Race of the Gods” – Aug 22

6. “The Splintered Paddle” – Aug 29

7. “Day of Spilled Brains” – Sept 5

8. “The Sacred Niu Grove” – Sept 12

9. “The Black Desert” – Sept 19 (Directed by Jason Momoa)

Cultural Legacy and Visual Power

Produced by Pride of Gypsies, Hard J Productions, Fifth Season, and Chernin Entertainment, the series has all the makings of a sweeping historical epic with a deeply personal touch. Momoa’s commitment to honoring Hawaiian history and culture shines through, promising not just intense drama but also an education on a rich and complex heritage often overlooked on screen.

Expect a blend of poetic storytelling, brutal warfare, political strategy, and indigenous pride—all wrapped in lush Pacific Island landscapes and gripping performances.

Mark Your Calendar: Chief of War debuts exclusively on Apple TV+ on August 1, 2025. This isn’t just history—it’s a battle cry echoing across time. 🏹🌺