“Chief of War Cast Hopes New Series Will Serve as Educational Gateway to Real Hawai’i”
The creators and cast of Chief of War are thrilled to bring this groundbreaking series to audiences, shedding light on Hawaiian culture and history. Set in the late 18th century, the show follows warrior Ka’iana as he seeks to unite Hawai’i’s kingdoms before Western influence takes hold. With an almost exclusive use of Ōlelo Hawai’i, the series offers a unique perspective on indigenous storytelling.
Led by Jason Momoa, who also produced and co-wrote the show, the cast includes talented actors like Moses Goods, Kaina Makua, Temuera Morrison, Cliff Curtis, Luciane Buchanan, and Te Ao O Hinepinga. Momoa expressed his excitement for viewers to experience Chief of War, hoping it will inspire future generations to continue sharing and elevating indigenous stories.
For co-creator Thomas Pa’a Sibbett, the series goes beyond entertainment—it’s a celebration of cultural heritage and representation. The use of Ōlelo Hawai’i in the show marks a powerful resurgence of the language, which was once suppressed in past generations. This revival is a testament to the resilience and richness of Hawaiian culture.
The significance of Chief of War isn’t lost on the cast, with actors like Moses Goods emphasizing its role as a starting point for audiences to deepen their understanding of indigenous cultures. The show’s portrayal of Hawaiian language and heritage serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of the people and their stories.
Temuera Morrison, Cliff Curtis, and other cast members echoed the importance of indigenous cultural storytelling in reclaiming identity and challenging historical erasure. By sharing their heritage through Chief of War, they hope to ignite conversations about resilience, heritage, and the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities in a changing world.
As Chief of War makes its debut, it stands as a powerful tribute to Hawaiian history and a call to action for viewers to engage with and learn from indigenous perspectives. Through compelling storytelling and heartfelt performances, the series promises to leave a lasting impact on audiences and spark meaningful conversations about the enduring power of indigenous cultures.