Key Points:
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Chief of War is a nine-episode historical drama series premiering on Apple TV+ on August 1, 2025.
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The cast includes Jason Momoa as Ka’iana, with Temuera Morrison, Luciane Buchanan, and other Polynesian actors playing key roles.
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The series blends real historical figures and fictional characters, with strong emphasis on cultural authenticity and native storytelling.
Chief of War brings the untold story of Hawaii’s unification to life, led by Jason Momoa as a fierce warrior named Ka’iana. This historical Apple TV+ drama spans nine episodes and showcases the struggle against colonization, told through a Native Hawaiian perspective. With a Polynesian-led cast and grounded historical research, the show offers a powerful look into Hawaii’s past.
Who Are the Main Cast Members in Chief of War?

The ensemble cast of Chief of War includes veteran actors and rising Polynesian talent, all portraying characters rooted in the history of 18th-century Hawai’i. Here’s a look at the key players:
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Jason Momoa as Ka’iana
The lead protagonist and a Native Hawaiian warrior whose internal and external battles define the series. Momoa, also co-creator and director of the finale, delivers a performance filled with raw intensity and cultural pride. -
Temuera Morrison as King Kahekili
The seasoned ruler and mentor to Ka’iana. Known for his roles in Aquaman and Star Wars, Morrison brings wisdom and gravitas to a character vital to Ka’iana’s transformation. -
Luciane Buchanan as Ka’ahumanu
A politically influential figure, Ka’ahumanu plays a pivotal role in shaping Hawaii’s future. Buchanan portrays her with the strength and nuance the real historical figure deserves. -
Te Ao o Hinepehinga as Kupuohi
A loyal companion to Ka’iana, Kupuohi’s character provides emotional balance and strategic insight. Despite initial confusion in early listings, her role is now confirmed across multiple sources. -
Siua Ikale’o as Nahi
Ka’iana’s brother and fellow warrior, Nahi adds familial strength to the battle for unification. -
Kaina Makua as King Kamehameha
A legendary figure in Hawaiian history, Kamehameha’s journey toward unifying the islands is brought to life by newcomer Kaina Makua. -
Brandon Finn as Prince Kūpule
A royal caught in the political tide of change, Prince Kūpule represents the complex loyalties during this turbulent time. -
Mainei Kinimaka as Heke
Kupuohi’s younger sister, Heke brings a grounded, familial dimension to the story’s otherwise warrior-heavy landscape. -
Te Kohe Tuhaka as Namake
Another of Ka’iana’s brothers, Namake rounds out the sibling warrior trio in the series. -
Moses Goods as Moku
As Kamehameha’s trusted advisor, Moku offers strategic counsel crucial to the island unification. -
James Udom as Tony
A runaway enslaved man whose story collides with the central plot, Tony adds a vital lens into the global implications of colonization. -
Cliff Curtis as Keōua
The cousin of Kamehameha and a key political rival. Curtis plays this layered role with a sense of ambition and rivalry. -
Erroll Shand as Capt. John Meares
Representing the British colonial threat, Capt. Meares symbolizes the looming external forces that shape the internal Hawaiian struggle. -
Siaosi Fonua as Maui
A warrior from the island of Maui, contributing to the inter-island dynamics that influence the narrative.
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What Historical Roles Do These Characters Play?

Chief of War draws heavily from real historical events that took place between 1782 and 1810, depicting the unification of Hawai’i’s islands during a time of cultural resistance and European encroachment.
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Ka’iana, while fictionalized in dramatization, is inspired by real Hawaiian warriors who initially aligned with but later opposed Kamehameha.
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King Kamehameha is portrayed with the reverence his legacy commands as the unifier of the Hawaiian Islands.
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Ka’ahumanu historically became one of Hawaii’s most powerful female leaders, and her portrayal aligns with her political and cultural significance.
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King Kahekili and Keōua are real figures with substantial influence during the transitional period of Hawaiian rule.
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Tony, while fictional, introduces a broader view of slavery and colonial interaction, grounding the show in wider global realities.
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Which Supporting Cast Members Appear in Chief of War?

The series features a wide array of minor and supporting characters, often appearing in single episodes. These roles help flesh out the historical context:
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Ocean Kaowili – Listed in several sources but without a confirmed character role.
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Kainoa Andrade as Maui Chief
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Daniel Watta as King Hahana
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Marie Falevai Sibbett as Namahana
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Albert Mateni as Hawaii Warrior
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Branscombe Richmond as King Kalaniopu’u
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Peter Tait as Copley
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Wolf Chen as China Jack
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Jason Hood as Captain Metcalfe
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Xavier Horan as Gunsmith
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Chief of War Cast and Characters

Actor | Character | Role Description |
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Jason Momoa | Ka’iana | Fierce warrior leading the unification mission |
Temuera Morrison | King Kahekili | Wise ruler and Ka’iana’s mentor |
Luciane Buchanan | Ka’ahumanu | Influential political leader |
Te Ao o Hinepehinga | Kupuohi | Loyal ally and strategist |
Siua Ikale’o | Nahi | Ka’iana’s brother, devoted warrior |
Kaina Makua | King Kamehameha | Historical king uniting Hawai’i |
Brandon Finn | Prince Kūpule | Royal figure in political struggle |
Mainei Kinimaka | Heke | Kupuohi’s sister, grounding the familial arc |
Te Kohe Tuhaka | Namake | Another warrior brother of Ka’iana |
Moses Goods | Moku | Kamehameha’s chief advisor |
James Udom | Tony | Enslaved man intersecting the story |
Cliff Curtis | Keōua | Political rival and cousin to Kamehameha |
Erroll Shand | Capt. John Meares | British colonial sea captain |
Siaosi Fonua | Maui | Warrior from the island of Maui |
When and Where Can You Watch Chief of War?
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Release Date: Premiered on August 1, 2025.
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Platform: Available exclusively on Apple TV+.
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Episode Format: The first two episodes dropped together, with the rest airing weekly through September 19, 2025.
Source: Apple TV+
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