Jason Momoa Casts University of Hawai’i Alum in Chief of War TV Series

key aliʻi figures from that era, such as Kahekili and Kaʻahumanu.

When Makua was first approached by Momoa with the idea of playing Kamehameha, he was a bit skeptical. With no acting background and a full schedule dedicating his life to empowering youth in west Kauaʻi through land rehabilitation and food system revitalization, he wasn’t sure if he was the right fit for the role. However, after some soul-searching and guidance, he decided to embrace the opportunity.

Despite his initial doubts, Makua delved into research and his own genealogy, discovering a personal connection to Kamehameha through his father’s side. He gained a deeper understanding of the revered aliʻi, realizing the sacrifices and tough decisions leaders like Kamehameha had to make for the greater good.

On set, surrounded by hundreds of crew members, Makua found solace in drawing from his own life experiences to embody the character of Kamehameha. His background as a hula dancer and his work with youth in his community helped him connect to the emotional depth of the role.

Off-screen, Makua continues to uphold his mission of serving the community and preserving Hawaiian values. Through his nonprofit organization, Kumano I Ke Ala, he has transformed acres of land for agricultural purposes and provided educational programs for thousands of youth. His work extends to commercial ventures like the Aloha Aina Poi Co., processing and distributing fresh poi across Hawaiʻi.

Makua’s acting debut in Chief of War is not just a personal milestone but a step towards representation for Indigenous peoples worldwide. He hopes that his role will inspire other native populations to share their stories and be a voice for their communities. Through his work on-screen and off, Makua embodies the values of kuleana (responsibility) and aloha ʻāina (love of the land) that are central to Hawaiian culture.