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The Legacy of Hawaii Five-O

The Story of Hawaii Five-O

For many people, their image or perception of what the state of Hawaii is like has been shaped by popular culture. One of the most influential portrayals is the police drama Hawaii Five-O. Originally aired in 1968, the series ran for 12 seasons until 1980, captivating audiences with its depiction of law enforcement in Hawaii.

Origins and Impact

The story centers around Detective Lieutenant Steve McGarrett (played by Jack Lord), head of a special state police task force known as Hawaii Five-O. Filmed on location in Honolulu and across the island of Oahu, the show also utilized other Hawaiian islands for various scenes. The name “Hawaii Five-O” is a nod to Hawaii being the 50th state of the United States.

When the series premiered, Hawaii had only been a state for 9 years, making it relatively unfamiliar to mainland audiences. The tropical settings showcased in the show helped promote Hawaii as an exotic and desirable vacation destination. Iconic catchphrases like “Book ‘em, Danno!” and “Murder One!” became part of popular culture, echoing across school playgrounds worldwide.

Popular Characters

The show featured a memorable cast of characters who became beloved icons:

Steve McGarrett

Steve McGarrett, portrayed by:

Jack Lord (1968–1980): The original portrayal of Steve McGarrett showcased a stoic leader with a military background and an unwavering dedication to justice. His character’s strong sense of duty often placed him in conflict with criminals and authorities alike, making him a revered figure in both the series and among fans.
Alex O’Loughlin (2010–2020): In the 2010 reboot, Alex O’Loughlin reimagined Steve McGarrett as a former Navy SEAL leading a special task force. O’Loughlin’s portrayal infused McGarrett with rugged charm and a modern approach to crime-solving, maintaining the character’s iconic status while introducing new layers to his personality and relationships.

Danny “Danno” Williams

Danny Williams was portrayed by:

James MacArthur (1968–1979): Initially depicted as a local detective with a fiery personality and famous for the line “Book ‘em, Danno!”, MacArthur’s portrayal of Danny Williams established him as Steve McGarrett’s trusted ally.
Scott Caan (2010–2020): In the 2010 remake, Scott Caan brought a modern edge to Danny Williams, emphasizing his role as a devoted father and his dynamic partnership with McGarrett.

Chin Ho Kelly

Chin Ho Kelly was portrayed by:

Kam Chun (1968–1978): Kam Fong Chun’s portrayal of Chin Ho Kelly showcased his experience as a former HPD detective and his dedication to justice within the Five-O team.
Daniel Dae Kim (2010–2020): Daniel Dae Kim’s portrayal in the remake delved deeper into Chin Ho Kelly’s backstory, exploring themes of family loyalty and redemption, resonating with modern audiences.

Kono Kalakaua

Kono Kalakaua was portrayed by:

Zulu (1968–1972): Zulu’s portrayal of Kono Kalakaua highlighted his athleticism and dedication as a member of the Five-O team.
Grace Park (2010–2017): Grace Park brought a fresh perspective to Kono Kalakaua in the remake, emphasizing her intelligence and role as a strong female character in law enforcement.

Additional Characters and Actors

Wo Fat: An enigmatic villain recurring throughout the series, portrayed by various actors including Khigh Dhiegh.
Others: Notable actors such as Masi Oka (Dr. Max Bergman) and Lauren German (Lori Weston) also contributed to the series with their compelling characters and story arcs.

Memorable Episodes

Throughout its run, Hawaii Five-O featured numerous memorable episodes that left a lasting impact on viewers:

“Full Fathom Five” (Season 1, Episode 4): This early episode featured the team investigating the suspicious death of a deep-sea diver, highlighting the dangers of underwater exploration in Hawaii’s rich marine environment.
“Cocoon” (Season 2, Episode 15): A standout episode where McGarrett and the team uncover a complex smuggling operation involving exotic animals, showcasing Hawaii’s unique biodiversity.
“Hookman” (Season 6, Episode 1): Considered one of the series’ best episodes, “Hookman” follows McGarrett’s pursuit of a vengeful criminal targeting members of the Five-O team, culminating in a gripping showdown.
“Number One with a Bullet, Part 1 and 2” (Season 7, Episodes 1 and 2): A two-part episode where the team investigates the assassination attempt on a famous singer during a concert in Hawaii, blending crime-solving with elements of the local music scene.
“A Hawaiian Nightmare” (Season 11, Episode 22): In this intense episode, McGarrett and the team race against time to stop a series of bombings orchestrated by a disturbed individual, showcasing Hawaii’s vulnerability to acts of terrorism.

Filming Locations

While primarily based on Oahu, Hawaii Five-O also filmed scenes on other islands, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Hawaii. The Big Island, with its volcanic terrain and lush rainforests, provided a dramatic backdrop for many episodes. Locations such as Kona, Hilo, and Volcanoes National Park were featured, highlighting the island’s unique geography.

The Remake: Hawaii Five-0

In 2010, the series was rebooted as Hawaii Five-0 (using a numerical zero), updating the concept for a new generation. Starring Alex O’Loughlin as Steve McGarrett and Scott Caan reprising his role as Danny Williams, the remake continued the legacy of crime-solving in Hawaii. Grace Park portrayed Kono Kalakaua, while Daniel Dae Kim took on the role of Chin Ho Kelly, adapting the characters for modern audiences.

The remake maintained the essence of the original with its gripping storylines, captivating characters, and breathtaking Hawaiian locations. It not only entertained audiences but also contributed positively to Hawaii’s economy by showcasing local businesses, attractions, and cultural elements.

Legacy and Impact

Both the original and the remake of Hawaii Five-O have left an indelible mark on television history. They have not only entertained generations of viewers but also immortalized Hawaii as more than just a tropical paradise. The series highlighted the state’s beauty, culture, and community spirit, reinforcing its status as a premier vacation destination.

While Hawaii might not have international spies lurking around every corner, as depicted in Hawaii Five-O, one thing remains undeniable—the islands are indeed a stunning and unforgettable place to visit. Plan your stay at our Volcano bed and breakfast and explore the beauty of the Big Island during your Hawaii Five-O inspired trip!