Those who loved FX’s award-winning historical drama,Shogun, will be delighted to learn thatApple TV+has a brand-new series they’ll want to add to their watchlist right away. Set in 18th-century Hawaii,Chief of Waris a historical drama that chronicles the unification of the Hawaiian Islands. Faced with the threat of colonization, uniting under one kingdom was crucial to Hawaii’s ability to resist outside forces, and this newest series showcases that incredible story.
Co-created, co-written, and executive-produced by Jason Momoa and Thomas Pa‘a Sibbett,Chief of Warcenters its narrative around Kaʻiana(Momoa), a warrior of noble lineage, and one of the first Hawaiians to travel beyond the shores of his homeland and return. The series offers an authentic portrayal of a rich history and culture, telling a story that remains unfamiliar to many viewers. Sure, Hawaii is part of the United States now, but its extensive and inspiring past isn’t something necessarily taught in schools.
WhileChief of Warmight tell a completely different story fromShogun, their appeal remains the same, with neither series whitewashing its narrative.Viewers who couldn’t get enough ofShogunwill loveChief of War.
‘Chief of War’ Is Based on a True Story
And Offers Viewers a Narrative of History Rarely Seen
Much likeShogun,Chief of Waris a historical drama that explores a time in history that many of its target audience likely know nothing about. The compelling nature of both shows hooks viewers from the very beginning. Both are packed with drama and action, and share a deep commitment to immersing viewers in overlooked periods of history. While both are certainly rooted in real events of the past,Chief of Waraims for more historical accuracythanShogun. That isn’t to say the latter was way off base; the FX series simply took more artistic license and leans more into historical fiction. It is based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell, after all.
Regardless of their accuracy, the angle of their narratives showcases moments in history that many viewers are likely unfamiliar with. As such, these kinds of stories not only aim to entertain, but they also seek to educate audiences aboutextraordinary times in history. How many people truly understand the complexities of 17th-century Japan or the challenges that shaped the Hawaiian Islands long before they became part of the United States? Because of this,both series help to open viewers up to the notion of exploring aspects of history they might have never realized interested them in the first place.
‘Chief of War’ Aims for Authentic Representation of Hawaii’s History
And the Show’s Creators Are the Perfect People To Bring It to Life
Much likeShogun’sefforts to accurately showcase Japanese culture and its feudal system in the 17th century,Chief of Warwent to great lengths to represent Hawaii’s history and culture.A passion project for Momoa and Sibbett, who share Hawaiian heritage, the pair have been wanting to bring this particular story to life for many years. As such, they’re the perfect duo to make Hawaii’s story a reality on the small screen. During the process of bringing the series to fruition, they consulted dozens of experts regarding the show’s language, its action sequences, the weapons used by warriors, and its wardrobe.
Told from an indigenous perspective, the details and nuances of Hawaii and its people were approached with great care and appreciation, which doesn’t go unnoticed. Viewers who admiredShogunfor its efforts of authenticity across the board will immediately fall in love with Momoa’s newest series. Its use of the Hawaiian language, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, might seem like a barrier at first, but non-English languages shouldn’t deter potential viewers. In this case, it helps bring these amazing characters and their stories to life in a way that wouldn’t be accomplished with English.
Viewers who are wary of subtitles shouldn’t fret. Given the scope of the story, English is also used throughoutChief of War. After all,the impacts of transpacific exploration are undeniable. However, in the name of authenticity, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi is used where appropriate, even in cases where historical usage may be uncertain, to honor the spirit of the culture.Shogunutilized various languages, particularly Japanese, and it went on to win numerous Golden Globes, including Best Drama Series. If Momoa’s show pans out as anticipated, it could follow the same path.
It’s important that those involved with bringing historical dramas to life have real-world connections to the story and the culture that’s represented. When the heritage of actors, writers, directors, and creators aligns with the narrative of a show, there’s a level of authenticity that cannot be replicated.ShogunandChief of Warare prime examples of that. As such, it inevitably makes them more appealing and entertaining. Simply put,Shogunfans need to addChief of Warto their watchlist right away.
How Many Episodes of ‘Chief of War’ Will There Be?
And When Will It Be Available To Stream?
A one-season series,Chief of Warwill have nine episodes. Its first two episodes are available now and will run through mid-September. Because it’s a limited series, there’s nothing currently in the works for a second season. However, those plans could always change depending on the show’s success.Shogunwas only designed to have one season, but its popularity sparked a desire foranother season, which is currently in development. You never know whetherChief of Warwill follow that same path. Check below for the exact date each episode will be available on Apple TV+.
Episode Title
Release Date
‘The Chief of War’
June 04, 2025
‘Changing Tides’
‘City of Flowers’
August 23, 2025
‘City of Flowers Part II’
August 02, 2025
‘The Race of the Gods’
June 09, 2025
‘The Splintered Paddle’
August 20, 2025
‘Day of Spilled Brains’
July 01, 2025
‘The Sacred Niu Grove’
June 17, 2025
‘The Black Desert’
July 14, 2025
Chief of Waris streaming now onApple TV+. New episodes premiere every Friday, and the finale arrives on July 10, 2025.
Chief of War
