Hey guys! Remember the original Hawaii Five-0? The one that graced our screens from 1968 to 1980? It was a total classic, setting the stage for police procedurals in a tropical paradise. The show was groundbreaking, and the cast became household names. So, what happened to them after the show ended? Let's dive in and find out where the original Hawaii Five-0 cast members are now, exploring their careers and lives after their time on the iconic series. You won't believe what some of them got up to!

Jack Lord as Steve McGarrett

Ah, Jack Lord, the man who was Steve McGarrett. Bold, charismatic, and always ready to take down the bad guys, Lord's portrayal of the head of Five-0 is legendary. His catchphrase, "Book 'em, Danno!" is instantly recognizable and has been parodied and referenced countless times in pop culture. But what happened to Jack Lord after Hawaii Five-0 wrapped up its impressive 12-season run? Well, after dedicating so much of his life to the show, Lord largely retired from acting. He made a few guest appearances here and there, but he mostly focused on his other passions, including painting and real estate. Lord was a talented artist and had a keen eye for business, which kept him busy and fulfilled during his post-Hawaii Five-0 years. He and his wife, Marie, lived a relatively private life in Honolulu, enjoying the beautiful scenery and warm climate that had become so familiar to him during his time filming the series. Jack Lord passed away on January 21, 1998, due to congestive heart failure, leaving behind a legacy as one of television's most iconic and memorable characters. His contribution to the world of television, and especially to the crime drama genre, remains significant, and his portrayal of Steve McGarrett continues to be celebrated by fans around the world. Jack Lord's impact on Hawaii Five-0 is undeniable, and his presence is still felt in the hearts of many who watched and loved the show.

James MacArthur as Danny "Danno" Williams

"Book 'em, Danno!" wouldn't be the same without the Danno himself, James MacArthur. As Steve McGarrett's loyal and sometimes exasperated partner, Danny Williams, MacArthur brought a relatable and grounded presence to the show. He provided a counterpoint to McGarrett's intensity, and their dynamic was a key ingredient in the show's success. Before landing the role of Danno, MacArthur had already established himself as a promising young actor, appearing in films like Swiss Family Robinson and The Interns. However, it was his role in Hawaii Five-0 that truly catapulted him to fame. After leaving the show in 1979, a year before it ended, MacArthur continued to work in television and theater. He made guest appearances on various TV shows and toured extensively in stage productions. Despite his success in other roles, he remained closely associated with Hawaii Five-0 and often spoke fondly of his time on the show. James MacArthur passed away on October 28, 2010, in Florida, due to natural causes. His portrayal of Danny "Danno" Williams remains a beloved part of television history, and he is remembered for his contributions to the show's enduring popularity. His character's interactions with McGarrett are still enjoyed by fans, and his legacy as a talented and versatile actor lives on.

Kam Fong Chun as Chin Ho Kelly

Kam Fong Chun, known to most as Chin Ho Kelly, was a vital part of the Hawaii Five-0 team. As a dedicated and dependable detective, Chin Ho brought a sense of calm and wisdom to the group. Fong's own life story was incredibly inspiring. He was a survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor and later became a police officer before pursuing his acting career. This real-life experience added depth and authenticity to his portrayal of Chin Ho Kelly. Sadly, Kam Fong Chun passed away in 1993, but his contributions to Hawaii Five-0 are unforgettable. His character was known for his loyalty and dedication to the team, and Fong's performance brought a sense of warmth and humanity to the show. He was a beloved member of the cast, and his presence is still missed by fans of the series. Kam Fong Chun's legacy extends beyond his acting career, as his life story serves as a testament to resilience and determination. He overcame significant challenges to achieve his dreams, and his portrayal of Chin Ho Kelly remains an inspiration to many.

Zulu as Kono Kalakaua

Zulu, whose real name was Gilbert Francis Lani Damian Kauhi, brought a unique energy and presence to Hawaii Five-0 as Kono Kalakaua. His imposing stature and charismatic personality made him a memorable member of the team. Zulu was a true Hawaiian, born and raised in Honolulu, and he brought a deep connection to the islands to his role. Before acting, he was a Waikiki beach boy, a singer, and a comedian, showcasing his diverse talents. He left the show after four seasons, and while he continued to perform locally, he didn't pursue acting extensively afterward. Zulu passed away in 2004, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved entertainer and a symbol of Hawaiian pride. His portrayal of Kono Kalakaua remains a significant part of Hawaii Five-0's history, and his contributions to the show's authenticity are still appreciated by fans. Zulu's vibrant personality and deep connection to Hawaiian culture made him a unique and unforgettable member of the cast.

Where Are They Now? The Legacy Continues

The original Hawaii Five-0 cast left an indelible mark on television history. While some have sadly passed away, their contributions to the show continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world. The show's enduring popularity is a testament to the talent and dedication of the cast and crew, who created a truly iconic and groundbreaking series. Even with the reboot, we always remember the original Hawaii Five-0 and the amazing cast that brought it to life.

So, there you have it! A glimpse into the lives and careers of the original Hawaii Five-0 cast. It's always fascinating to see what happened to the actors behind the characters we love. Their legacy lives on through reruns, DVDs, and the memories of fans who grew up watching them solve crimes in paradise. Keep the aloha spirit alive! I hope you guys liked this deep dive into the cast and their current lives!