Te Kohe Tuhaka chatted about starring in the historical drama mini-series “Chief of War” on Apple TV+.
“Chief of War” follows the epic and unprecedented telling of the unification and colonization of Hawaii in the late 18th century.
Told from an indigenous perspective, “Chief of War” is a passion project for creators Jason Momoa and Thomas Pa’a Sibbett, who both share native Hawaiian heritage.
The series features a predominantly Polynesian cast, led by Momoa alongside Luciane Buchanan, Temuera Morrison, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Cliff Curtis, newcomer Kaina Makua, Moses Goods, Siua Ikale’o, Brandon Finn, James Udom, Mainei Kinimaka,Te Kohe Tuhaka, and Benjamin Hoetjes.
How was your experience in “Chief of War”?
It was humbling, exciting and amazing — this was the biggest project ( scale wise ) I have ever worked on.
What did you like most about your character Namake?
The fact that he is torn between honor and love — Namake is an honorable man, and loves his family but he has a secret that he is at constant battle with.
What was it like working with Jason Momoa?
As cliche as it sounds, it was a dream job, and Jason made it that way, he is probably one of the most generous humans I have ever met, his craft not only as an actor but also as a director was inspiring.
How does it feel to be a part of the streaming service Apple TV+?
Humbling… Apple TV is a global platform, so to be telling this story and sharing it to the world on a world leading platform makes it a very powerful union.
How does it feel to be an actor in the digital age? (now with streaming, technology and social media being so prevalent)
This is a great question. I personally feel like I’m still trying to figure out what it means to be an actor not just in the digital age, but also what that means in this crazy industry climate.
I’m grateful for the opportunities to be on these platforms to continue to share and tell stories, and really looking forward to continuing to do so as this digital world continues to grow.
What is your advice for young and emerging actors?
Be connected to the truth of why you want to be apart of the industry, the industry is brutal, so keeping to your truth will help you to navigate the millions of “no” you will get, and also help you to honor and appreciate the “yes” you will get.
What would you like to tell our readers about “Chief of War”?
“Chief of War” is a journey and window into history that has rarely been seen or told, so allow yourself to be carried away during this season, you will be moved in ways you never thought possible, I can guarantee that.
What’s the one thing you want our readers to get out of “Chief of War”?
That no matter the culture/period/place we are all connected to storytelling, and Chief of War is a great must-watch story.
To learn more about New Zealand actor Te Kohe Tuhaka, follow him on Instagram.
