Apple TV+ on 1 August released the first two episodes of “Chief of War,” a nine-part historical drama co-created, co-written and led by Jason Momoa. The series, filmed largely in Hawaiian with a predominantly Polynesian cast, follows 18th-century warrior Ka‘iana as he seeks to unify the islands in the face of looming Western colonisation. Early critical response is favourable: USA Today hailed the production as a “towering accomplishment,” while Rotten Tomatoes showed an initial 86 percent Fresh rating. Momoa said the project was a personal undertaking that aims to foreground Native Hawaiian perspectives. He also revealed that his father, Joseph Momoa, makes a cameo appearance, underscoring the family’s involvement. The actor has directed the season finale and plans weekly episode drops through 19 September. Separately, Momoa has shaved his trademark beard for the first time in six years to resume the role of Duncan Idaho in Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune: Part Three.” In a video posted this week, the 46-year-old actor quipped that the makeover was “only for you, Denis.” Filming on the science-fiction sequel is expected to begin shortly, with Warner Bros. targeting a 2026 release.