NCIS Hawai'i Alum Jason Antoon Laments Show's Abandoned Studio Lot 1 Year After Surprise Cancellation

Published: June 9, 2025

Jason Antoon, who starred as cyber intelligence specialist Ernie Malik on the CBS series NCIS: Hawai'i, shared a video of the seemingly abandoned studio, Hawaii Film Studio, which was once bustling with activity. The actor noted that the lot was now "empty and full of weeds" one year after the show's cancellation.

Antoon posted a clip on X of the overgrown weeds across the property, captioning it "Hawaii Film Studios - Empty and full of weeds." The studio, located in Honolulu, Hawaii, was also home to shows including Lost, Hawaii Five-0, and Magnum P.I.

FOLLOWING THE CANCELLATION OF FOX'S RESCUE HI-SURF, HAWAII IS NO LONGER THE FILMING LOCATION FOR ANY TV SERIES FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 20 YEARS AS NETWORKS WORK TO KEEP PRODUCTION COSTS LOW.

Amid the change, Gov. Josh Green announced his plans to veto a bill that would "sunset" tax credits in the state after five years. His office said, "This bill would have a significant long-term impact on income tax credits across a variety of industries, including film and television, research, and renewable energy," and "disincentivize future investors from doing business in Hawai'i."

In April, Antoon shared his disappointment that NCIS: Hawai'i was coming to an end, writing, "This business is brutal and makes no sense. But we had soooo much fun. Love you all and mahalo."

His costar Vanessa Lachey, who played Jane Tennant on the series, also shared that she was "gutted" and "processing" the news.

"This show meant so much to me… and more every day I find, to lots of people. As an AAPI Woman, Wife, Mother, Colleague & Friend, I am more proud than ever to have been your Jane Tennant on TV," she wrote on Instagram.

"This journey has taught me to continue to push the envelope and break glass ceilings," she added. "I encourage you ALL to as well! Anything we dream is ours for the taking, no matter what the circumstance! A Hui Hou. ❤️🌺👍."

Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant on NCIS Hawaii

In August, Lachey bid farewell to the Aloha State in a message on Instagram, accompanied by a carousel of colorful photos.

"Home is where the heart is…," she continued. "Hawai'i, you will always have my heart! Mahalo Nui Loa [Thank you very much] for 3 beautiful, magical years you gave me and my family!"