Gilbert Francis Lani Damian Kauhi, better known by his stage name Zulu, became a household name through his portrayal of Kono Kalakaua in the original Hawaii Five-O. As one of the key members of the team, Zulu’s character brought humor, charm, and a local Hawaiian authenticity to the groundbreaking series. Born on October 17, 1937, in Hilo, Hawaii, Zulu’s life was filled with the spirit of aloha, and his larger-than-life persona left a lasting impression on television and the Hawaiian entertainment industry.
Throughout his career, Zulu not only gained recognition for his role on Hawaii Five-O, but also for his contributions to local Hawaiian culture as a radio personality, comedian, and entertainer. His ability to blend his heritage with mainstream television made him an important figure in promoting Hawaiian representation during a time when it was rare to see local culture reflected on a global stage.
Early Life in Hawaii and the Origins of “Zulu”
Zulu was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, where he grew up surrounded by the beauty of the islands and its traditions. Like many native Hawaiians of his generation, Zulu was deeply connected to his cultural roots, and this connection would influence much of his work later in life. His path to fame began with a love of performance that emerged early on.
Before finding success as an actor, Zulu started his career as a musician and stand-up comedian, performing in various clubs around Honolulu. Known for his quick wit and infectious personality, Zulu quickly became a popular figure in the local entertainment scene. He took the stage name “Zulu” as a way to differentiate himself and create a memorable persona. The name, though not linked to his Hawaiian heritage, was chosen for its bold and exotic sound, which complemented his larger-than-life stage presence.
Zulu’s comedy routines often included local humor and cultural references, which endeared him to Hawaiian audiences. His popularity as a performer opened doors for him in the burgeoning local television and radio industries.
Breakthrough Role: Kono Kalakaua on Hawaii Five-O
Zulu’s big break came in 1968 when he was cast as Kono Kalakaua, a key character on CBS’s Hawaii Five-O, which would go on to become one of the most iconic crime dramas in television history. Created by Leonard Freeman, the show followed the investigations of a special state police task force in Hawaii, led by Steve McGarrett (played by Jack Lord). Kono Kalakaua, played by Zulu, was one of McGarrett’s trusted detectives, known for his strength, loyalty, and close connection to the local Hawaiian community.
Zulu’s portrayal of Kono was groundbreaking at the time because it represented one of the few instances where a native Hawaiian actor played a central character on a major American television show. His character was integral to the team, and his presence helped to bring an authentic Hawaiian perspective to the series, blending the culture and landscape of the islands with the procedural drama.
While Kono was often portrayed as the muscle of the group, Zulu’s natural comedic talents brought humor to the role, offering a balance to the more serious aspects of the crime-solving team. His camaraderie with the other characters, particularly with McGarrett, was a key component of the show’s dynamic, and Zulu became a fan favorite over the course of his time on the series.
Hawaii Five-O was groundbreaking not only for its setting but also for its diversity, and Zulu’s character played a pivotal role in bringing Hawaiian culture to mainstream television audiences. The series aired from 1968 to 1980, and while Zulu left the show after its fourth season, his portrayal of Kono Kalakaua had already made a lasting impact. Even after his departure, Kono remained a beloved character, and Zulu’s contribution to the show helped solidify its place in TV history.
Life After Hawaii Five-O
After leaving Hawaii Five-O in 1972, Zulu returned to his roots in Hawaiian entertainment, focusing on his work as a radio personality and entertainer in Honolulu. His natural talent for connecting with audiences made him a popular figure on the local airwaves, where he continued to use his comedic skills to entertain listeners.
Zulu’s departure from Hawaii Five-O was marked by rumors of tensions between him and the show’s producers. Though he never fully explained the reasons for his exit, it was clear that Zulu’s focus had shifted back to his passion for local entertainment. He remained a beloved figure in Hawaii, where he continued to perform in clubs, host radio shows, and engage with the community.
In the years that followed, Zulu maintained a lower profile in the television industry, but he never fully stepped away from the spotlight. He made occasional guest appearances on TV shows and in films, but his primary focus remained on his local career in Hawaii. His comedic performances and presence in the local entertainment scene helped preserve his status as a cultural icon in Hawaii, long after his time on Hawaii Five-O had ended.
A Legacy of Representation and Culture
Zulu’s role on Hawaii Five-O is particularly significant when viewed through the lens of cultural representation. At a time when native Hawaiian actors were rarely given prominent roles in Hollywood, Zulu’s portrayal of Kono Kalakaua helped bring visibility to Hawaiian actors and culture on a global stage. His character was a proud local, deeply connected to the Hawaiian way of life, and Zulu himself became a symbol of authentic representation in a television landscape that was often dominated by mainland American culture.
Zulu’s success in blending local humor, culture, and character work resonated with audiences both in Hawaii and beyond. As a pioneer of Hawaiian representation in television, Zulu paved the way for future generations of actors from the islands, showing that there was a place for native Hawaiian talent in mainstream entertainment.
Beyond his acting work, Zulu’s dedication to Hawaiian culture and community remained a core part of his identity. His influence extended beyond television, as he continued to engage with the local population through his work as a radio host and comedian. His ability to bring laughter and joy to his fellow Hawaiians ensured that his legacy went beyond his time in Hollywood.
Remembering Zulu
Zulu passed away on May 3, 2004, at the age of 66. His death was met with tributes from fans, fellow actors, and the local Hawaiian community, all of whom remembered him for his contributions to television and his commitment to his culture.
Today, Zulu’s portrayal of Kono Kalakaua remains an important part of Hawaii Five-O’s legacy, and his character continues to be remembered fondly by fans of the show. In the 2010 reboot of Hawaii Five-0, the character of Kono Kalakaua was reimagined as a female detective, played by Grace Park, but the legacy of Zulu’s original portrayal continues to be celebrated as a trailblazing moment in television history.
Zulu’s career is a testament to the power of representation and the importance of bringing authentic voices and faces to mainstream entertainment. His work on Hawaii Five-O and his dedication to the local Hawaiian entertainment scene have left an enduring mark on both the islands and the world of television, making him a true cultural icon.