Jason Momoa Faces Harrowing Loss in Chief of War Penultimate Episode Ahead of Season Finale
Jason Momoa’s Apple TV+ historical drama Chief of War has reached one of its most emotional turning points. The penultimate episode saw Momoa’s character, Ka’iana, face devastating personal loss that will drive the narrative into the highly anticipated season finale.
Jason Momoa’s Chief of War penultimate episode delivers emotional tragedy as Ka’iana mourns Nahi’s death, setting up the Apple TV+ season finale.
Apple TV+
Apple TV+
Apple TV+
The episode, co-written by Momoa alongside Thomas Pa’a Sibbett and Doug Jung, and directed by Brian Andrew Mendoza, follows the aftermath of a massacre led by Captain Simon Metcalfe (Jason Hood) and his crew. After Ka’iana’s warnings about European settlers are dismissed by Chief Kamehameha I (Kaina Makua) and his advisor Moku (Moses Goods), the betrayal leads to tragic consequences.
Ka’iana’s younger brother, Nahi, played by Siua Ikale’o, becomes the central figure of heartbreak. Targeted by Keōua of Hawai’i (Cliff Curtis), Nahi is brutally killed after finding love with Heke (Mainei Kinimaka), Ka’iana’s sister-in-law. His death devastates Ka’iana’s family and sparks the emotional momentum for the finale.
Momoa revealed that filming the aftermath of Nahi’s death brought out an intensity unlike anything he had experienced as an actor. He described the scene of Ka’iana burying his brother in a traditional Hawaiian ceremony as one of the most painful and visceral performances of his career.
For Ikale’o, portraying Nahi meant embodying a character whose loyalty and search for belonging were cut short by violence. His storyline struck a chord with viewers, sparking a brief #SaveNahi campaign among fans who were reluctant to accept the loss.
The series highlights not only the warriors but also the pivotal role of women in shaping the story. Ka’iana’s wife, Kupuohi (Te Ao o Hinepehinga), and Kamehameha’s wife, Ka’ahumanu (Luciane Buchanan), help persuade Kamehameha to finally use Ka’iana’s “red-mouthed weapons” in preparation for battle. The creative team emphasized that future seasons would continue to expand on the strength and influence of these women.
Temuera Morrison, who plays Ka’iana’s rival Keōua, spoke about the challenge of portraying a historical figure while respecting cultural traditions. His character’s conflict with Kamehameha is rooted in issues of lineage, tradition, and power, creating a tense showdown that will unfold in the finale.
Apple TV+
Momoa also directed the concluding episode, describing it as the most personal and ambitious project of his career. He expressed hopes for a renewal, noting that the story of Hawai’i’s history has many layers yet to be told.
Chief of War has been praised by critics and audiences alike, with its blend of historical storytelling, cultural authenticity, and powerful performances. The season finale premieres September 19 on Apple TV+, marking the culmination of Ka’iana’s grief-fueled journey and setting the stage for what could be an expansive continuation.
