Jack Lord was an American actor, director, and producer, best known for his legendary role as Steve McGarrett on the long-running television series Hawaii Five-O. Lord’s commanding presence, intense performances, and striking looks made him a household name during the show’s 12-year run, and he remains a beloved figure in television history. With a career that spanned several decades and included work in theater, film, and television, Lord left an indelible mark on Hollywood and became synonymous with the phrase, “Book ’em, Danno!”—one of TV’s most iconic catchphrases.
Born John Joseph Patrick Ryan on December 30, 1920, in Brooklyn, New York, Lord’s journey to stardom was filled with diverse experiences, from his early life as a merchant seaman to his rise as one of television’s most respected actors. His dedication to his craft and his ability to take control of his career behind the camera made him a pioneer in many ways, helping him to become not just a star but also a respected creative force in the industry.
Early Life and Education
Jack Lord grew up in Brooklyn, where his father was a steamship company executive. Lord’s early years were marked by a love for the ocean and adventure, which led him to become a merchant seaman as a young man. He spent time sailing around the world, developing a strong work ethic and a sense of discipline that would later serve him well in his acting career. His time at sea also inspired him artistically, and he began painting landscapes of the ocean, a hobby that would stay with him throughout his life.
Lord’s passion for art led him to attend New York University (NYU), where he studied Fine Arts and earned a degree in art. During his time at NYU, Lord became increasingly interested in acting, attending the famed Actors Studio to hone his skills. His rigorous training at the Actors Studio, combined with his natural charisma and commanding presence, prepared him for a career in theater, film, and television.
Early Career in Film and Television
After completing his education, Jack Lord began pursuing acting in earnest. He made his Broadway debut in 1950 in the play The Traveling Lady, which earned him favorable reviews and established him as a talented stage actor. Lord’s striking good looks and powerful stage presence quickly caught the attention of film producers, and he soon transitioned into film work.
One of Lord’s early notable film roles was as the lead in The Court-Martial of Billy Mitchell (1955), a military drama that starred Gary Cooper. Lord’s performance in the film garnered positive attention and opened the door for further opportunities in Hollywood. He continued to appear in a variety of films throughout the 1950s, including God’s Little Acre(1958), a drama based on Erskine Caldwell’s controversial novel. Lord’s portrayal of Buck Walden in God’s Little Acreshowcased his ability to handle emotionally intense and complex characters.
In 1962, Lord appeared in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, playing CIA agent Felix Leiter opposite Sean Connery’s Bond. Though his role in the film was relatively small, it placed him alongside one of cinema’s most iconic characters and added to his growing resume of notable roles.
Rise to Fame with Hawaii Five-O
While Jack Lord had achieved success in film and theater, it was his role as Steve McGarrett on Hawaii Five-O that would catapult him to international fame and solidify his place in television history. Created by Leonard Freeman, Hawaii Five-O premiered in 1968 and ran for 12 seasons, making it one of the longest-running police dramas in TV history at the time.
As Steve McGarrett, the head of an elite crime-fighting unit in Hawaii, Lord brought a sense of gravitas, intensity, and authority to the role. His portrayal of McGarrett was characterized by his unwavering commitment to justice, his strict adherence to the law, and his no-nonsense demeanor. Lord’s performance made McGarrett one of the most memorable and respected law enforcement figures on television, and his catchphrase, “Book ’em, Danno,” became a cultural phenomenon.
What set Hawaii Five-O apart from other police dramas was not only its unique Hawaiian setting but also its combination of action, mystery, and complex character relationships. Lord’s McGarrett was at the center of this, often taking on organized crime syndicates, international espionage, and political corruption, while remaining steadfast in his pursuit of justice.
Lord’s involvement in the show went beyond just acting. As the series progressed, he became increasingly involved behind the scenes, taking on responsibilities as a producer and even directing several episodes. His meticulous attention to detail and his desire for authenticity helped shape the tone and style of the show, ensuring that it maintained a high standard of quality throughout its run.
Professionalism and Commitment
One of the hallmarks of Jack Lord’s career was his commitment to professionalism. He was known for his meticulous approach to acting, often preparing extensively for his roles and expecting the same level of dedication from his co-stars and crew. His insistence on maintaining high standards sometimes led to tension on set, but it also ensured that the work produced was consistently of high quality.
Lord’s control over Hawaii Five-O extended to many aspects of the show, including its iconic opening sequence, which featured breathtaking shots of Hawaii’s natural beauty set to Morton Stevens’ memorable theme music. Lord understood the importance of the show’s visual appeal and worked closely with directors and cinematographers to capture the stunning landscapes of the Hawaiian Islands.
His dedication to the show paid off, as Hawaii Five-O became a massive hit both domestically and internationally. The series not only showcased Lord’s acting talent but also highlighted his abilities as a producer and director, making him one of the few actors of his time to have such significant creative control over a major network series.
Life After Hawaii Five-O
After Hawaii Five-O ended in 1980, Jack Lord largely stepped away from the spotlight. He had achieved incredible success as an actor and producer, and rather than continuing to pursue new roles, he chose to retire from acting. Lord and his wife, Marie, settled in Honolulu, where they lived quietly and remained active in charitable work.
Throughout his retirement, Lord continued to paint and support the arts, staying connected to his creative roots. He and Marie were also known for their philanthropic efforts, donating to various causes, including educational institutions and healthcare facilities in Hawaii.
Despite stepping away from the public eye, Lord’s impact on the television industry remained significant. His work on Hawaii Five-O had paved the way for future police dramas, and his portrayal of McGarrett set the standard for many similar characters that followed in subsequent decades.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Jack Lord’s legacy as an actor and producer is closely tied to his portrayal of Steve McGarrett on Hawaii Five-O, a role that remains iconic even decades after the show’s original run. The success of the show, combined with Lord’s powerful presence as McGarrett, helped establish Hawaii as a popular setting for television and film productions, and it introduced audiences around the world to the beauty and culture of the islands.
Hawaii Five-O has continued to resonate with audiences, leading to a successful reboot in 2010. The reboot, which ran for 10 seasons, paid homage to the original series and featured a new cast of characters while maintaining the essence of the original. Lord’s portrayal of McGarrett remained the gold standard, with his influence felt throughout the reboot’s run.
Jack Lord passed away on January 21, 1998, at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, creativity, and dedication to his craft. His work on Hawaii Five-O continues to be celebrated, and he is remembered as one of television’s most iconic figures. Lord’s contributions to the industry, both as an actor and as a producer, have left an enduring mark on television history.