If you thought Jason Momoa was done swinging swords after See and Aquaman, think again — it’s time to ditch the shirt and gear up with war paint. Apple TV+ has just dropped the first teaser for its next epic series: Chief of War — and it reeks of battle cries, anti-colonial fury, and stunning slow-motion shots filled with blood, sand, and tribal howls.
What’s Chief of War About?
The series follows Ka‘iana, a warrior played by Momoa himself, who fights to unite Hawai‘i just before Western colonization crashes ashore in the late 1700s. This is real historical drama told from an Indigenous perspective — not some romanticized whitewash starring British officers.
It’s based on true events, and yes — it’s a passion project for both Momoa and co-creator Thomas Pa‘a Sibbett, who share Native Hawaiian heritage. You can see it. You can feel it.
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The Cast: More Polynesia, Less Hollywood
This isn’t just another show with brown actors in supporting roles. Chief of War goes all in on authentic casting with a powerful Polynesian ensemble:
- Jason Momoa
- Temuera Morrison (Boba Fett)
- Cliff Curtis
- Luciane Buchanan
- Moses Goods
- Siua Ikale‘o
…plus a lineup of local talent you’ve probably never seen before — but won’t forget anytime soon.
And yes, Momoa directs the finale himself. Because of course he does.
Music and Production with Muscle
Hans Zimmer composed the theme score. Yep, Hans freakin’ Zimmer. The Oscar- and Grammy-winning composer teamed up with James Everingham to deliver the soundscape across all nine episodes. If you love the vibes of Gladiator, Dune, or The Dark Knight — you know what’s coming.
The series is produced by FIFTH SEASON and Chernin Entertainment — and Apple is clearly going big on this one.
When and Where?
- Premiere: Friday, August 1, 2025, on Apple TV+
- First 2 episodes drop day one
- Then: One new episode every Friday until September 19
With nine episodes total, it’s not a mega-binge, but a slow-burn saga you can follow week by week — with sweat on your brow and a lump in your throat.
Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.
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