Game of Thrones and Aquaman star Jason Momoa is returning to screens — this time in a completely different role. In the upcoming Apple TV+ series Chief of War, he plays Kaʻiana, a legendary Hawaiian warrior of the 18th century whose fate is closely tied to the unification of the islands. The first teaser has been released, and the premiere is set for August 1, 2025.
The plot is based on real events: at the time, Hawaii was fragmented and consumed by internal conflict. Kaʻiana is not just a character, but a man at the heart of history. Returning to his homeland after a long absence, he initially fights for unification, then leads a rebellion against those revealed to be unworthy of power. It’s a story not only of swords, volcanoes, and colonization, but also of choice, freedom, and the personal cost of leadership.
The series was co-written by Momoa and Thomas Paʻa Sibbett, who also serve as showrunners. It marks Momoa’s first major scripted television project as a writer — and judging by the teaser, it’s a bold one.
Filming took place on locations close to the real historical sites, and the series has all the signature force of Apple TV+: lavish costumes, lush nature, large-scale battle scenes, and a rich musical score.
Momoa is joined onscreen by Luciane Buchanan (The Night Agent), Cliff Curtis (Sunshine), and Temuera Morrison (The Mandalorian). All nine episodes will premiere on Apple TV+ — likely with a weekly release.
For Momoa, this may be his most personal role yet. He’s not just portraying a Hawaiian chief — he’s returning to his roots, sharing a story many have never heard. And he’s doing it not with a sword, but with a screen.
