“Hawaii Five-O” is a classic American police procedural drama that aired on CBS from 1968 to 1980. Created by Leonard Freeman, the show is one of the longest-running police dramas in television history, and it became a defining series in the crime genre. Set against the scenic backdrop of Hawaii, the show follows the elite state police task force led by Steve McGarrett (Jack Lord), as they solve high-profile crimes ranging from organized crime and international espionage to murder and robbery. The combination of gripping crime stories, action-packed sequences, and the stunning setting of the Hawaiian islands made “Hawaii Five-O” a groundbreaking show that left a lasting legacy in television history.
The original series is best known for its iconic catchphrase, “Book ‘em, Danno,” and its memorable theme song, which became a staple of pop culture. The show’s focus on real-world issues, including political corruption, terrorism, and drug trafficking, alongside more traditional crime-solving plots, helped establish it as one of the most respected police dramas of its time. “Hawaii Five-O” also helped elevate Hawaii as a prime filming location, showcasing its natural beauty while exploring complex crime cases.
Plot Overview
“Hawaii Five-O” centers on the activities of a fictional state police unit in Hawaii, led by Detective Captain Steve McGarrett. As the head of the task force, McGarrett answers directly to the governor of Hawaii and has nearly unlimited resources to investigate and bring criminals to justice. The team works together to tackle high-stakes crimes, often involving dangerous and politically sensitive situations. From tracking down mobsters to stopping terrorists, McGarrett and his team face challenges that test their investigative skills, physical endurance, and moral compasses.
The show’s episodic structure typically features a new crime or case each week, with the Five-O team working tirelessly to solve it. While the team encounters traditional crimes like murder, theft, and kidnapping, many episodes also delve into international intrigue, organized crime syndicates, and political espionage, making the show stand out from other police dramas of the era. McGarrett is known for his tough, no-nonsense approach to crime-fighting, and his relentless pursuit of justice is a key theme throughout the series.
One of the show’s unique features is its location. Hawaii, with its beautiful landscapes, lush beaches, and vibrant culture, becomes a character in its own right. The series was one of the first network TV shows filmed entirely on location in Hawaii, which gave it a distinct look and feel. The show’s setting also introduced viewers to Hawaiian culture and history, adding depth and authenticity to the storylines.
Throughout the series, the Five-O team faces a recurring antagonist, Wo Fat (Khigh Dhiegh), a Chinese intelligence operative involved in various criminal activities. Wo Fat’s ongoing cat-and-mouse game with McGarrett adds a long-term narrative arc to the show, as McGarrett is determined to bring him to justice. Their confrontations become some of the most memorable moments in the series, with Wo Fat emerging as one of television’s most iconic villains.
- Criminals in the 50th State didn't stand a chance, thanks to Detective Steve McGarrett (Jack Lord) and the men of his elite Hawaii Five-O unit, in this immensely popular 1968-1980 CBS crime drama, filmed on location
- Co-starring were James MacArthur as Danny "Danno" Williams, Zulu as Kono Kalakaua, and Kam Fong as Chin Ho Kelly
- Be there
- Aloha
- 279 episodes on 72 discs
Key Characters
- Steve McGarrett (Jack Lord): Steve McGarrett is the central figure in “Hawaii Five-O” and serves as the head of the elite state police task force. A former naval officer with a strong sense of duty and justice, McGarrett is dedicated to protecting Hawaii and bringing criminals to justice. His character is known for being tough, determined, and highly skilled in both physical combat and investigation. Jack Lord’s portrayal of McGarrett brought an authoritative presence to the role, making him one of the most iconic police characters in television history.
- Danny “Danno” Williams (James MacArthur): Danny Williams, often referred to by McGarrett as “Danno,” is McGarrett’s right-hand man and the second-in-command of the Five-O team. As a former officer with the Honolulu Police Department, Danny is highly competent and loyal to McGarrett. His youthful energy and quick thinking make him an essential part of the team, and his close relationship with McGarrett forms the emotional core of the series. The catchphrase “Book ‘em, Danno” became one of the most famous lines in television history, solidifying his role in pop culture.
- Chin Ho Kelly (Kam Fong): Chin Ho Kelly is one of the original members of the Five-O task force and serves as an experienced detective with deep roots in the Hawaiian community. He often uses his connections and local knowledge to help the team solve cases. Chin Ho’s character brings a sense of authenticity to the show, as he represents the cultural diversity of Hawaii. Kam Fong’s portrayal of Chin Ho Kelly added depth to the series, making him a beloved character throughout the show’s run.
- Kono Kalakaua (Zulu): Kono is another original member of the Five-O team, known for his physical strength and ability to handle dangerous situations. As a native Hawaiian, Kono brings both local knowledge and street smarts to the task force. His tough, no-nonsense attitude complements the other members of the team, and he is often involved in action-heavy sequences. Zulu’s portrayal of Kono added an extra layer of action to the series and emphasized the show’s connection to Hawaiian culture.
- Wo Fat (Khigh Dhiegh): Wo Fat is the primary recurring villain throughout the series and serves as McGarrett’s nemesis. As a Chinese intelligence operative, Wo Fat is involved in a wide range of criminal activities, from espionage to organized crime. His ongoing rivalry with McGarrett is a key storyline in the show, and their intense confrontations became one of the defining aspects of the series. Khigh Dhiegh’s portrayal of Wo Fat as a cunning and ruthless antagonist helped elevate the show’s tension and stakes.
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- Hawaii Five-0 is an American police procedural drama series produced by CBS Productions and created by Leonard Freeman. Set in Hawaii, it features Jack Lord as Detective Captain Steve McGarrett, the head of a special state police task force in Hawaii.
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Themes and Storytelling
“Hawaii Five-O” explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the complex moral decisions that law enforcement officers must face. The show’s primary focus is on McGarrett’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that criminals are held accountable for their actions. This dedication to justice, often at the expense of his personal life, sets McGarrett apart as a heroic figure who is willing to go to great lengths to protect his community.
The series also delves into themes of loyalty and camaraderie within the Five-O team. McGarrett’s close-knit relationships with Danno, Chin Ho, and Kono reflect the strong bond that forms between colleagues who trust each other in life-threatening situations. Their mutual respect and dedication to their work create a sense of family within the team, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in law enforcement.
Another important aspect of the show is its exploration of contemporary political and social issues. “Hawaii Five-O” frequently tackled themes such as corruption, organized crime, terrorism, and the complexities of international relations, particularly during the Cold War. The show’s storylines often involved high-stakes situations that reflected the political climate of the time, making it both relevant and thought-provoking.
The show’s procedural format also allowed for a wide variety of crime stories. Each episode introduced a new case for the Five-O team to solve, ranging from murder and kidnapping to espionage and drug trafficking. This format kept the series fresh and engaging, as viewers could expect new and exciting challenges for the team each week. The action-packed car chases, shootouts, and suspenseful investigations became a hallmark of the show, drawing in fans of crime dramas and action alike.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
“Hawaii Five-O” made a significant impact on television history and pop culture. Its portrayal of an elite police task force dealing with high-stakes crimes set the standard for future police dramas, influencing shows like “Magnum, P.I.” and “Miami Vice.” The show’s use of on-location filming in Hawaii not only showcased the beauty of the islands but also made the setting an integral part of the series, adding to its distinct identity.
The show’s theme song, composed by Morton Stevens, became one of the most recognizable TV themes of all time, adding to its cultural legacy. The phrase “Book ‘em, Danno” also became iconic, further embedding the show in pop culture.
The success of the original series led to a reboot in 2010, which aired for ten seasons and introduced a new generation of viewers to the world of “Hawaii Five-O.” The reboot honored the spirit of the original while modernizing its storytelling and characters, cementing the franchise’s place in television history.
“Hawaii Five-O” remains a beloved series for its compelling crime stories, memorable characters, and stunning Hawaiian backdrop, making it a timeless classic in the crime drama genre.
