Meet the Cast of ‘Chief of War Season 1’

Prepare for a groundbreaking epic that rewrites history from the center of the Pacific. “Chief of War” unveils the visceral, untold story of Hawai’i’s unification not through colonizers’ lenses, but through the fierce ambition and sacrifice of its own people. In the late 18th century, as European powers circle the islands, legendary war chief Kaʻiana (Jason Momoa) faces an impossible choice: watch his fractured homeland succumb to foreign invasion or forge a brutal path to unity through the fire of battle. This is not a tale of conquest, but a desperate fight for survival against the looming tide of imperialism.

From visionary creators Jason Momoa and Thomas Paʻa Sibbett, the series plunges viewers into the heart of ancient Hawaiian politics, spirituality, and warfare. Experience breathtaking battles, intricate alliances, and profound cultural traditions as Kaʻiana navigates treacherous rivalries between powerful Aliʻi (chiefs), including the formidable King Kahekili (Temuera Morrison) and the volatile Keoua (Cliff Curtis). “Chief of War” is a visceral, authentic portrayal of a pivotal moment where the fate of a nation—and its very soul—hangs in the balance. Stream the saga exclusively on Apple TV+ starting August 1, 2025.

Meet the Warriors and Rulers Shaping Destiny:

1. Jason Momoa as Kaʻiana

Jason Momoa, Native Hawaiian (Kanaka Maoli) and global superstar (“Aquaman,” “Dune”), embodies the complex war chief Kaʻiana, a pivotal but often overlooked historical figure. Momoa, also co-creator and executive producer, brings deep personal and cultural investment, ensuring authenticity drives this passion project. His physical presence and intensity are perfectly matched to a leader wrestling with the moral cost of unity.

Momoa’s Kaʻiana is the series’ conflicted heart – a brilliant strategist forced to become the architect of a unified Hawaiʻi he may not live to see. Expect a raw portrayal of ambition, duty, and the crushing weight of knowing that saving his people might require becoming the very thing he fears: a conqueror.

2. Luciane Buchanan as Kaʻahumanu

Rising star Luciane Buchanan (Māori descent, “The Night Agent”) takes on the role of the young Kaʻahumanu, who would later become one of Hawaiʻi’s most powerful and influential Queen Regents. Buchanan brings intelligence, charisma, and a simmering strength to this future political titan in her formative years.

Her portrayal captures Kaʻahumanu’s early observations of power dynamics and her crucial, evolving relationship with Kamehameha’s circle. Buchanan showcases the nascent wisdom and resolve that would define Kaʻahumanu’s legacy as a key figure in the kingdom’s transition.

3. Te Ao o Hinepehinga as Kupuohi

Esteemed Māori actress Te Ao o Hinepehinga (“Waru,” “The Panthers”) portrays Kupuohi. Her extensive work in indigenous storytelling brings profound depth and cultural resonance to the role, likely representing a figure of wisdom, spiritual guidance, or familial anchor within Kaʻiana’s world.

Hinepehinga’s presence grounds the series in the spiritual and cultural fabric of Kanaka Maoli life. Her performance embodies the traditions, values, and ancestral connections that fuel the characters’ motivations and sacrifices amidst the chaos of war.

4. Te Kohe Tuhaka as Namake

Acclaimed Māori actor Te Kohe Tuhaka (“Dead Lands,” “The Tank”) brings formidable presence as Namake. Known for portraying powerful warriors and leaders, Tuhaka likely embodies a key ally, rival warrior, or loyal lieutenant within the complex hierarchy of Hawaiian warfare and politics.

Tuhaka’s performance promises intensity and martial prowess. Namake’s journey will reflect the personal stakes for warriors caught in the sweep of history, fighting for their chiefs, their lands, and their identities.

5. Brandon Finn as Prince Kupule

Kanaka Maoli talent Brandon Finn steps into the role of Prince Kupule. This casting suggests a character tied to the royal lines of Maui or Oʻahu, potentially a son or close relative of King Kahekili, adding a layer of youthful perspective and royal intrigue to the conflict.

Finn’s portrayal will explore the burdens and expectations placed on the next generation of leaders during a time of existential crisis. Kupule’s arc may involve navigating loyalty, ambition, and the harsh realities of impending war and colonial threat.

6. Siua Ikale’o as Nahi

Pasifika actor Siua Ikale’o brings his background to the role of Nahi. His casting indicates a significant warrior or figure within Kaʻiana’s faction or a rival chiefdom, contributing to the series’ authentic representation of Hawaiian and broader Pacific Islander strength and community.

Ikale’o’s Nahi represents the rank-and-file warriors whose courage and sacrifice fuel the campaign for unity. Expect a performance highlighting brotherhood, loyalty on the battlefield, and the human cost of Kaʻiana’s ambition.

7. Mainei Kinimaka as Heke

Kanaka Maoli actor Mainei Kinimaka portrays Heke. This role likely signifies another crucial member of Kaʻiana’s inner circle, a skilled fighter, a trusted advisor, or a character embodying the connection to ‘āina (land) and ancestral practices amidst the turmoil.

Kinimaka’s performance adds depth to the ensemble, showcasing the diverse skills, personalities, and cultural roles that sustained Hawaiian society and warfare. Heke’s journey will resonate with themes of service, heritage, and resilience.

8. Temuera Morrison as King Kahekili

Legendary Māori actor Temuera Morrison (“Star Wars,” “Moana”) commands the screen as King Kahekili, the powerful and fearsome ruler of Maui and Oʻahu. Morrison embodies the imposing authority, strategic brilliance, and unyielding resistance Kahekili was known for – Kamehameha’s most formidable adversary.

Morrison brings gravitas and complexity to this pivotal antagonist/rival. His Kahekili is not a mere villain but a sovereign fiercely protecting his kingdom and way of life against both Kamehameha’s rising power and the encroaching foreign threat, representing a major obstacle to Kaʻiana’s mission.

9. James Udom as Tony

James Udom (known for “The Rookie,” “Manhunt”) appears as Tony. This character name suggests a historical European or American figure integrated into the Hawaiian court, likely representing the early, influential outsiders like Isaac Davis or John Young (though Hoetjes plays Young).

Udom’s role embodies the growing foreign presence. “Tony” could be an advisor, a trader, or a mercenary, symbolizing the complex and often dangerous interactions between Hawaiians and the outsiders whose arrival fundamentally altered the islands’ destiny.

10. Benjamin Hoetjes as John Young

Benjamin Hoetjes takes on the role of John Young, the historical British sailor who became a trusted military advisor to Kamehameha I. Young played a crucial role in introducing Western warfare tactics and weaponry.

Hoetjes portrays the complex reality of this historical figure – neither purely hero nor villain. His performance explores Young’s integration, loyalties, and the profound, often devastating, impact of Western technology and knowledge on the traditional Hawaiian battlefields Kaʻiana navigates.

11. Cliff Curtis as Keoua

Acclaimed Māori actor Cliff Curtis (“Avatar,” “Fear the Walking Dead”) embodies Keoua, the volatile and powerful chief of Kaʻū on Hawaiʻi Island and a bitter rival of Kamehameha. Curtis excels at portraying intense, charismatic, and deeply conflicted leaders.

Curtis’s Keoua is a force of nature – a fierce warrior and proud Aliʻi whose resistance to Kamehameha’s unification drive fuels major conflict. His presence represents the deep-seated internal divisions Kaʻiana must overcome, showcasing the personal and political vendettas threatening the islands’ survival.

Mark Your Calendars! Here is the complete list of cast of Chief of War. Witness the birth of a nation in the face of annihilation. “Chief of War” premieres globally on Apple TV+, August 1, 2025.