Jason Momoa’s Bold Move Brings Hawaiian Language to Apple TV+
You’ve probably seen Jason Momoa battle villains in Aquaman , or ride through deserts as a fierce warrior in Game of Thrones . But in his latest series, Chief of War , he’s not just acting—he’s leading a cultural movement. What’s making waves here isn’t just the gripping story or the cinematic shark fight (yes, that happens), but the fact that the show is told almost entirely in the indigenous Hawaiian language, ‘Ōlelo Hawai’i.
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Momoa, who was born in Honolulu, has taken on one of his most personal projects yet. Chief of War follows the little-known story of Kaʻiana, a Hawaiian warrior navigating the political turmoil and battles of the late 18th century. It’s a sweeping historical epic, and while there’s plenty of action—including the eye-popping scene of Momoa taking on a shark—the real power of the show comes from its authenticity.
The idea to make the show in Hawaiian wasn’t just a creative choice—it was a non-negotiable for Momoa and his producing partner, Thomas Pa’a Sibbett. They knew from the start that if the show was done in English, it would lose its heart. In Momoa’s words, “We wouldn’t have been able to go home if we did this in English.” Apple, to its credit, got on board. They embraced the vision and understood that today’s audiences are not only comfortable with subtitles—they appreciate the richness they bring.
The commitment to language is matched by the commitment to character. Momoa was surprised to learn Kaʻiana’s story—he wasn’t a figure often taught in school, even in Hawaii. Kaʻiana’s journey from paradise, through global hardship, and back home again offered the kind of layered role Momoa had been craving. And thanks to his longstanding relationship with Apple, built over three seasons of See , he was trusted to help bring it to life with the scale and care it deserved. He even got to direct parts of the series, calling it his version of Dances with Wolves or Braveheart .
Ultimately, Chief of War isn’t just another historical drama. It’s a passion project, a cultural statement, and a rare moment where a major streaming platform gave space to an indigenous language and story. It premieres August 1st on Apple TV+, with new episodes every Friday through September 19. Whether you’re in it for the battles or the deeper cultural layers, it’s clear—this is television with a purpose.
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