Reports suggest that there is indeed a love triangle brewing in Chief of War involving Kupuohi, Namake, and the Kaʻiana, and it's going to heighten the stakes in the coming season.
In a recent Apple TV+ interview with the stars of Chief of War, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, who plays Kupuohi, Ka'iana's wife in Chief of War, suggested a love triangle was shaping up. However, the actor didn't mention the characters, but episode 4 also highlighted some closeness between Kupuohi and Ka'iana's brother Namake as they assume Ka'iana is dead after being long absent. Read on to know more about the speculation.
Here is how a love triangle between Ka’iana, Namake and Kupuohi could shape up in Chief of War
As tensions escalate on the battlefield and Kaʻiana remains away on his mission, grief and loneliness draw Namake and Kupuohi closer, culminating in an intimate moment in episode 4 that they never envisioned. Their bond, initially rooted in mourning, deepens emotionally—tension builds as both struggle with their feelings. Despite Kupuohi’s efforts to resist acting on those emotions, the connection becomes too strong to deny.
According to reports, this layer will add emotion to Ka'iana's character once he is back from the war and is meant ot escalate the drama further. This is not just a triangle, but the show attempts to explore the themes of loyalty, betrayal and longing that also connect with political tensions.

As mentioned, in an interview with Apple TV, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, who plays Kaʻiana’s wife, Kupuohi in Chief of War, opened up about navigating the emotional complexities of her role, especially as she finds herself at the heart of a love triangle that tests loyalty, grief, and resilience. However, she didn't exactly mention the names of the characters involved in the love triangle. Reports speculated that she was talking about her character's escalating intimacy with Ka'iana's brother, Namake.
The actor also said that it's the new angle on love the show is exploring, and they are understanding it as the show progresses. They consider it "cool" and a lot rooted in the "Christian religion".
Therefore, season 2 of Chief of War might centre around this love triangle with Ka'iana returning to his home and sensing the closeness between his brother and wife, almost tearing apart his heart. It is only to be seen how the strongest warrior on the field would take this betrayal by his wife nd brother.
Moreover, rather than being just a pawn between brothers, Kupuohi’s torn loyalties may showcase the unique strength of women in Hawaiian society. Her decisions could tip the balance between Kaʻiana and Namake, highlighting her as a key player rather than a side character.