Chief of War is a 2025 American historical drama miniseries created by Thomas Pa’a Sibbett and Jason Momoa, premiering globally on Apple TV+. This epic saga follows the story of Kaʻiana, a Native Hawaiian warrior, as he fights to unify the islands of Hawaiʻi in the late 1700s before colonization takes hold.
Jason Momoa stars in the lead role and also serves as co-writer and executive producer. The cast features Temuera Morrison, Luciane Buchanan, Kaina Makua, Cliff Curtis, and many more Polynesian actors in key roles.
Spanning nine episodes, the series offers a gripping, large-scale depiction of indigenous resistance, cultural pride, and political warfare. It is both a personal project for Momoa and a rare screen portrayal of Hawaiian history told through a native lens.
Chief of War Age Rating
Chief of War is rated TV-MA (Mature Audiences Only). This means it is intended for adults and may not be suitable for viewers under 17.
Below is a spoiler-free breakdown of the series’ content to help guide parents:
Violence & Peril
The series contains graphic and realistic war violence. Expect scenes of hand-to-hand combat, sword fights, battlefield injuries, and fatalities. The tone is serious and intense, with large-scale war scenes showing the brutality of 18th-century warfare. The violence is not constant, but when it occurs, it’s meant to feel authentic and emotionally powerful.
Language
While full language details are not confirmed, strong language or crude historical dialogue may appear. Given the TV-MA rating and historical war setting, occasional use of profanity and emotionally charged outbursts is likely.
Mature Themes
The show explores heavy topics including:
- Colonization and cultural loss
- Betrayal, political intrigue, and leadership struggles
- Death, grief, and the emotional toll of war
It also tackles issues of identity, loyalty, and the devastating cost of conquest. These themes are portrayed with emotional depth and realism.
Sexual Content
Although not confirmed, some suggestive dialogue or sexual situations could appear, as is common in historical dramas. However, this is not a major focus of the series.
Is Chief of War Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–13: Not suitable. The violence and mature subject matter make it inappropriate for younger viewers.
Ages 14–17: Not recommended for most teens. Even though it offers important cultural storytelling, the graphic war scenes, intense themes of colonization, and emotional heaviness may be too intense for many viewers in this age group.
Chief of War is best suited for mature audiences and history-minded adults. It’s an intense, emotional watch that doesn’t shy away from the dark realities of its historical setting.
What Parents Should Know
If you’re considering letting a teen watch Chief of War, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Watch the First Episode Together: This will help you judge whether your teen is ready for the series’ emotional weight and graphic content.
Talk About the History: Discuss the real-life history behind the show to provide context and help younger viewers understand the cultural importance of the story.
Be Prepared for Questions: War and colonization are heavy topics. Be open to conversations about power, identity, and historical trauma.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Chief of War?
A: Chief of War is rated TV-MA for graphic violence and mature themes.
Q: Is Chief of War suitable for teens?
A: No. Due to its intense battle scenes and heavy emotional themes, the series is intended for adults.
Q: Does Chief of War contain graphic violence?
A: Yes. The series portrays realistic and sometimes bloody warfare as part of its historical setting.
Q: Is there sexual content in Chief of War?
A: Possibly. Some suggestive scenes may appear, but it is not a major focus of the show.
Q: Where can I watch Chief of War?
A: The series will stream exclusively on Apple TV+ starting August 1, 2025, with new episodes every Friday.