The quiet ruptures into struggle as his character Ka‘iana, a revered Hawaiian chief, lassoes a shark—man and predator locked in a primal dance of survival. It’s a feat of strength and a statement of defiance from a warrior unafraid of whatever the ocean,

While Apple TV+ describes Chief of War as “based on true events,” allowing Momoa and the production team to add their own twist to real events, the tale is rooted in the harrowing true story of Chief Ka‘iana (played by Momoa). Here’s everything you need to know about his influential role in Hawaii’s history.