Movies

The Wild Story Behind Jason Momoa (Correctly) Predicting A Volcano Would Erupt While He Filmed His New Show

BBG News

Viewers are already familiar with Jason Momoa’s impressive acting prowess in his tough roles. Yet, the upcoming series “Chief of War” (available on Apple TV+) will showcase Momoa’s versatility as a director too. As he directs the 2025 TV schedule entry, Momoa faced several significant challenges. One such challenge was predicting and managing an actual volcano eruption during filming.

During the filming of a TV show or movie, numerous unforeseen incidents may occur. Yet, it’s safe to say that not many individuals have had to concern themselves with volcanic eruptions. In his conversation with Jake Hamilton from Jake’s Takes, Jason Momoa shared his conviction about an impending eruption and the build-up to the eventual explosion.

Initially, my gut feeling as we produced this [show], I shared with my colleague that the volcano would erupt. Later, I snapped a photo next to the calendar on our shoot day, scribbling ‘Boom!’ and smiling. Everyone around me was nonchalant, not taking me seriously. As we traversed Mauna Loa, I turned to Brian Mendoza, my other partner, and expressed my conviction that it would erupt. About four hours later, at 3 a.m., our line producer called us, excitedly announcing that Mauna Loa had indeed erupted – an event that hasn’t occurred in over a decade.

In my case, I find myself asking much the same question as you – how on earth did Momoa foresee that? It could have been a director’s keen insight or perhaps it was Momoa’s unique perspective from growing up in the Hawaiian islands that guided his thoughts. Whatever the reason, bravo to him for another spot-on prediction! For those who might not be aware, Momoa had predicted that Dune would have a significant impact on his career, and as we can see now, his foresight was indeed accurate.

The role of “Chief of War” might similarly influence Jason Momoa’s professional trajectory, as he portrays the warrior Kaʻiana in this historical drama miniseries. In the course of filming, Momoa and his fellow actors ran semi-clad through battle sequences, and the unexpected eruption of Mauna Loa added authenticity to the production. Remarkably, the actor from “Game of Thrones” discussed another unanticipated aspect that enhanced the filming process, shedding light on an intriguing coincidence:

Mauna Loa erupted, so we waited a day as no one had ever worked with an active volcano before regarding safety concerns about air quality and such. Experts conducted surveys and we were declared safe to resume work the next day. However, on that very day, Kilauea also erupted! It’s unprecedented in history for two volcanos to erupt simultaneously like this.

This version maintains the original meaning while making it more natural and easier to read, using clearer sentence structures and simpler vocabulary.

As a movie enthusiast, I’d rephrase it like this: When I thought fortune had struck me with a volcanic eruption, another one exploded – only in Hawaii! With me helming (at least) the season finale, viewers might get to witness the jaw-dropping spectacle of two volcanoes in action during that episode.

When filming in Hawaii, it’s customary to offer a blessing to seek approval for filming on the beautiful island and protection during production. This practice was observed during the filming of NCIS: Hawai’i and the production of Magnum P.I.‘s fifth season. For the show Chief of War, the prayers of Jason Momoa and his team were answered in a significant manner.

As soon as we begin, during our prayer time, it’s always raining. After that, it doesn’t rain for eight consecutive days. Throughout this period, we continue shooting without interruption. Immediately after we finish, it starts raining again, and the volcano becomes dormant eight days later.

Apart from battling the elements, Jason Momoa utilized his innovative thinking to choreograph the fight sequences. He was determined to make the day’s intense battles appear seamless, going as far as to tell Jake Hamilton that he filmed the scenes in reverse, starting at 3:00 AM and continuing until sunrise, to capitalize on the unique blue light.

Experience Jason Momoa’s performances in “Chief of War” and “See” with an Apple TV+ subscription! New users can start with a 7-day trial, followed by a monthly fee of $9.99. Grab the opportunity today!

View Deal

As volcanic ash covered the lava field, Jason Momoa filmed in five different locations simultaneously, with each area being captured by a separate camera crew. The star of “Baywatch” emphasized the significance of filming his episode because it showcases the tales of his Pacific Islander ancestors. Therefore, capturing that specific eruption held great importance for Momoa.

It’s amazing how closely Jason Momoa’s prediction matched reality when a volcano erupted during filming. I can only imagine the spectacle if I had been there to witness it. I hope those on set will remember that experience for a lifetime. Of course, fans will have the chance to enjoy the outcome of everyone’s hard work when Apple TV+’s “Chief of War” premieres as part of their streaming schedule on August 1st.

Read More

2025-07-21 01:39

Previous post She said yes! MasterChef star Julie Goodwin announces exciting family news
Next post Mandy Moore’s This is Us co-star Chrissy Metz shares update after ‘life-altering’ house fire