Chin Ho Kelly, played by Daniel Dae Kim, departed Hawaii Five-0 in the Season 7 finale, episode 25, titled “Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka Aina I Ka Pono (The Life of the Land is Perpetuated in Righteousness).” His departure, alongside that of Kono Kalakaua (Grace Park), marked a significant shift for the series and its core dynamic.
Why Did Chin Ho Kelly Leave Hawaii Five-0?
The exit of both Daniel Dae Kim and Grace Park was primarily attributed to contractual disputes with CBS. The actors, who were of Korean descent, reportedly sought pay parity with their white co-stars, Alex O’Loughlin and Scott Caan. Despite negotiations, an agreement could not be reached, leading to their departure before the start of Season 8. This situation sparked controversy and highlighted issues of representation and equal pay within the television industry. Chin Ho’s departure was therefore not a narrative choice so much as a consequence of the actors’ contracts not being renewed. The storyline for Chin involved accepting a leadership position on a special task force in San Francisco.
The Impact of Chin Ho’s Absence
Chin Ho Kelly was a cornerstone of the Hawaii Five-0 team from the very beginning. His calm demeanor, technical expertise, and strong moral compass provided a vital balance to the more impulsive actions of Steve McGarrett (Alex O’Loughlin) and Danny “Danno” Williams (Scott Caan). His departure left a void in the team dynamic, forcing the remaining members to adapt and develop new strategies for solving crimes. Furthermore, his relationship with his cousin Kono was a significant part of the show’s emotional core, and both their absences shifted the entire tone.
Chin Ho’s Role within Five-0
Chin Ho brought a unique set of skills to the table. As a former Honolulu Police Department officer, he possessed extensive knowledge of local law enforcement procedures and a deep understanding of Hawaiian culture. His expertise in surveillance and technology was invaluable in tracking down criminals and gathering evidence. He served as a father figure and confidante to many, acting as the moral center of the team.
The Show After Chin
While Hawaii Five-0 continued for three more seasons after Chin Ho’s departure, the show’s dynamic undeniably changed. New characters were introduced to fill the void, but the original chemistry and camaraderie were difficult to replicate. Many fans expressed disappointment over the loss of Chin Ho and Kono, viewing their exits as a blow to the show’s authenticity and its commitment to diversity. The series finale eventually aired in 2020.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Chin Ho Kelly’s exit from Hawaii Five-0:
FAQ 1: Was Chin Ho Killed Off?
No, Chin Ho Kelly was not killed off. The writers intentionally left the door open for a potential return by having him accept a new job opportunity in San Francisco. This allowed for a more graceful exit, avoiding the shock and grief associated with killing off a beloved character.
FAQ 2: Did Daniel Dae Kim Choose to Leave?
While the official statement involved “failed contract negotiations,” Daniel Dae Kim essentially chose to leave when an equitable agreement regarding compensation could not be reached. His decision was based on principles of fairness and equal pay within the entertainment industry.
FAQ 3: What Was the New Job Offer Chin Received?
Chin Ho was offered the position of leader of a special task force in San Francisco. This task force was focused on combating organized crime and corruption, presenting a challenging and rewarding opportunity for him.
FAQ 4: Did Chin Ho Return to Hawaii Five-0 Later?
No, Daniel Dae Kim did not reprise his role as Chin Ho Kelly in any subsequent episodes of Hawaii Five-0. Despite the open-ended nature of his departure, scheduling conflicts and other commitments prevented a return.
FAQ 5: What Happened to Chin Ho’s Cousin, Kono?
Kono Kalakaua, played by Grace Park, also left at the end of Season 7. Her character moved to the mainland to work with sex trafficking victims, a cause she felt deeply passionate about. This provided a similar open-ended exit for her character.
FAQ 6: Were Chin and Kono’s Departures Planned from the Beginning?
No, their departures were not planned from the beginning. They were a direct result of the contract negotiation failures. The writers had to quickly adapt the storyline to accommodate their exits at the end of Season 7.
FAQ 7: How Did Fans React to Chin Ho’s Departure?
The reaction from fans was overwhelmingly negative. Many viewers expressed disappointment and anger over the loss of Chin Ho and Kono, citing their importance to the show’s diversity and overall quality. The controversy surrounding the pay disparity further fueled the negative sentiment.
FAQ 8: Was There Any Bad Blood Between Daniel Dae Kim and CBS?
While there was likely some tension during the contract negotiations, both Daniel Dae Kim and CBS released professional statements emphasizing respect for each other. However, the underlying issue of pay equity clearly strained the relationship. Kim has since been vocal about the importance of advocating for fair representation and compensation.
FAQ 9: Did Any Other Actors Leave Hawaii Five-0 Due to Contract Issues?
While Chin and Kono’s departures were the most high-profile, other actors on the show also experienced contract negotiations throughout its run. However, none resulted in departures as impactful as those of Kim and Park.
FAQ 10: What Has Daniel Dae Kim Done Since Leaving Hawaii Five-0?
Daniel Dae Kim has continued to have a successful career in television and film. He starred in shows like The Good Doctor, New Amsterdam, and Pantheon, and has also been involved in producing projects that promote Asian American representation. He is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood.
FAQ 11: How Did the Show Explain Chin’s Absence On-Screen?
The show explained Chin’s absence by consistently referring to his new job in San Francisco. Characters would occasionally mention him in conversation, maintaining the illusion that he was still connected to the team, albeit from a distance.
FAQ 12: Was Chin Ho a Popular Character?
Yes, Chin Ho Kelly was a consistently popular character throughout the entire run of Hawaii Five-0. His integrity, intelligence, and loyalty resonated with viewers, making him a beloved member of the Five-0 team. His departure was therefore deeply felt by many fans of the show.