On the evening of July 18, 2025, Ko ʻOlina Beach Park became the backdrop for one of the most anticipated Hawaiian television premieres in years. Apple TV+ celebrated the world debut of Chief of War, the nine-episode historical drama created by and starring Jason Momoa alongside co-creator Thomas Paʻa Sibbett. The red carpet event brought together a predominantly Polynesian cast, including Luciane Buchanan, Temuera Morrison, Cliff Curtis, Kaina Makua, Mainei Kinimaka, and Te Kohe Tuhaka; to honor the story of Kaʻiana and the unification of the Hawaiian Islands ahead of the series’ global launch on August 1.
The evening opened with a welcome ceremony led by cultural leader Kaumakahiwa Kanakaʻole and unfolded with live performances by Kalani Peʻa, Josh Tatofi, and Common Kings with special guest Stan Walker, alongside traditional hula. It was a premiere rooted as deeply in Hawaiian protocol and ʻohana as it was in Hollywood spectacle, a rare combination that demanded a production setup capable of supporting both. OnStage Hawaiʻi provided the rigging and lighting effects that framed the ceremony and the performances, complimenting the overall experience of the evening.
