Vanessa Lachey, the leading lady of the show NCIS: Hawai’i, recently expressed her desolation after the unexpected discontinuation of the series. The sudden termination of the show after just three seasons has led to an uproar among fans and a wave of support for the disheartened actress.
Vanessa Lachey Reaction
In a personal statement shared via her Instagram Story, Lachey expressed a range of sentiments, from bewilderment to gratitude. “Gutted, confused, blindsided,” were the words she chose to describe her feelings about the abrupt cancellation. However, she quickly shifted gears to express her appreciation for the unwavering support from the show’s fervent fanbase, saying, “Grateful, confident, beloved fans.”
The Importance of Family
During this turbulent time, Lachey highlighted her commitment to her family. “Processing this news and still being present with my family,” she stated, underlining the significance of family bonds in times of upheaval. Lachey is also known for her role as a dedicated mother of three and wife to Nick Lachey.
Show’s Impact on Representation
The cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i created a ripple effect across social media, with key figures involved in the creation of the show expressing their concerns and disappointments. The Vanessa Lachey-led spinoff was a milestone for the NCIS franchise, being the first to feature a female lead. Many have pointed out that the show was a huge step for representation — especially for women and the LGBTQ, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.
Co-Creators Reflections
Series co-creator, Christopher Silber, took to social media to reflect on the journey that began four years ago. “We started something very special… ended up creating an ohana,” Silber remarked, using the Hawaiian term for family to describe the close-knit bond forged among the cast and crew. Similarly, co-creator Matt Bosack expressed gratitude for the opportunity to bring their vision to life. “While it’s ended, I am forever grateful… for our amazing cast, led by Vanessa Lachey, the entire crew, and this wonderful island I call home,” Bosack shared on social media.
Show’s Success and Future
Despite the abrupt cancellation, the NCIS franchise continues to thrive. NCIS and NCIS: Sydney have both been renewed, for their 22nd and 2nd seasons, respectively. The franchise also plans to expand via the “Young Gibbs” prequel NCIS: Origins, which is all set to claim a spot on CBS’ 2024-25 schedule, and a Tony/Ziva-centric offshoot that is bound for Paramount+.
Vanessa Lachey’s Historic Role
Lachey made history as the first-ever female lead in the NCIS franchise. Reflecting on her historic casting, she felt the weight of her role. “I remember the day I got the call ‘You got the job!’ I will never forget it! Dreams do come true,” she wrote in an emotional post on Instagram. Shortly after her casting, she and her husband Nick Lachey relocated to Hawaii — where the show films on location — along with their three kids: Camden John, Brooklyn Elisabeth, and Phoenix Robert.
Renewal Scorecard
The cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i came as a surprise to many, especially since the show was doing well in terms of viewership. Season-to-date, NCIS: Hawai’i averaged 7.8 million total viewers and a 0.5 demo rating (with Live+7 playback data). Among the 14 drama series that CBS aired this season, it ranked No. 6 in total audience and eighth in the demo.
Fans’ Outrage and Petition
Lachey’s post comes as fans express their sadness and outrage over CBS’ decision to cancel the series. Heartbroken by the news, fans started a petition on Change.com, urging CBS to reconsider and save the show. They also launched a #SaveNCISHawaii hashtag on social media platforms to express their disappointment.
The cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i has sparked a significant backlash from fans who appreciated the diverse representation the show offered. The termination was especially ill-timed, as it came at the end of Lesbian Visibility Week and just days before AAPI Month in May, both of which the show prominently featured. As fans and cast members alike mourn the loss, they also look forward to the future, hoping that the groundbreaking strides made by NCIS: Hawai’i will not be forgotten.