Jason Momoa recently opened up about the deeply personal experience of premiering his new historical drama series, “Chief of War,” in his native Hawaii, nearly three decades after his acting career began in “Baywatch: Hawaii.” The series, which explores the rich history of the Hawaiian Islands in the late 18th century, holds a special significance for Momoa, as it ties to his roots and family heritage.
During an interview, Momoa reflected on the profound nature of this premiere, stating, “I don’t think there’s anything bigger that I’ve ever experienced. It’s beyond pinch me — it’s punch me in the face!” The sense of destiny surrounding “Chief of War” resonates with him, as he feels it chose him for this role. He described a recent personal moment that reaffirmed his connection to the project, mentioning that, just before the premiere, ancient petroglyphs were revealed in the sand where he learned to surf as a child.
Momoa’s collaborator, Thomas Pa’a Sibbett, echoed this sentiment, noting that the production was marked by a unique energy that highlighted the cultural themes of clashing societies and the importance of dialogue and understanding between different communities throughout history.
Reflecting on his younger self, Momoa expressed that he had always hoped to create something impactful like “Chief of War,” steering the narrative toward the stories of indigenous peoples. He not only stars in and executive produces the series but also directed its finale, showcasing his passion for being actively involved in storytelling.
As he reminisces about his recent experiences—like hosting Black Sabbath’s farewell show—Momoa shared his hopes for a second season of “Chief of War,” urging viewers to support the show to continue its success and reach further storytelling milestones.
The series premiered on August 1, debuting with two episodes and continuing with weekly releases on Apple TV+, giving audiences the chance to engage deeply with the history and narratives it presents. With the blend of personal history, cultural significance, and ambition for the show’s future, there is a hopeful outlook as “Chief of War” unfolds its stories on screen.