The final episode of the rebooted Hawaii Five-0 aired on April 3, 2020. Titled “Aloha,” the episode served as a poignant goodbye, wrapping up several long-running storylines and offering viewers a sense of closure after a decade of crime-solving in paradise.
The End of an Era
The conclusion of Hawaii Five-0 marked the end of a significant era for CBS and procedural dramas in general. The reboot, which premiered in 2010, not only revitalized a classic television franchise but also became a cornerstone of the network’s Friday night lineup for years. The series, known for its breathtaking Hawaiian scenery, high-octane action sequences, and strong ensemble cast, resonated with audiences worldwide. “Aloha” was a deliberate effort to honor that legacy.
The episode’s plot revolved around two key narratives. The first centered on the conclusion of the Wo Fat storyline, a through-line that had haunted Steve McGarrett since the very beginning. While Wo Fat himself was long gone, his widow, Daiyu Mei (Eugenia Yuan), sought revenge, leading to a final, explosive confrontation. The second narrative focused on McGarrett’s personal journey. After years of dedicating his life to the team and fighting crime, he finally decided to leave Five-0, recognizing the need for a personal life and a chance to heal from the traumas he had endured.
The episode featured emotional farewells between McGarrett and his team, particularly Danny “Danno” Williams (Scott Caan), whose bromance with McGarrett was a defining characteristic of the series. The final scene depicted McGarrett leaving Hawaii on a plane, leaving behind a legacy of justice and camaraderie. The finality was intentional, signaling a true ending rather than a potential for revival.
“Aloha”: Deconstructing the Finale
“Aloha” was a carefully crafted finale designed to satisfy long-time fans. The episode balanced action with emotion, providing both thrilling fight sequences and heartfelt character moments. The decision to bring back Daiyu Mei allowed the writers to tie up loose ends regarding Wo Fat’s influence, while McGarrett’s departure provided a definitive conclusion to his character arc.
The episode also subtly acknowledged the series’ history, referencing past cases and relationships. These callbacks served as a reminder of the journey the characters had undertaken and the bonds they had forged. The use of the Hawaiian word “Aloha,” which encompasses both greeting and farewell, perfectly encapsulated the episode’s bittersweet tone.
The reception to “Aloha” was generally positive. Fans praised the episode’s emotional depth, its satisfying resolution of long-standing storylines, and its respectful treatment of the characters. While some viewers expressed disappointment at McGarrett’s departure, most acknowledged that it was a necessary step for his character’s growth.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Hawaii Five-0 Finale
The ending of Hawaii Five-0 left many viewers with lingering questions. Here are some frequently asked questions about the finale and its implications for the series:
FAQ 1: Why did Alex O’Loughlin (McGarrett) leave Hawaii Five-0?
Alex O’Loughlin’s decision to leave was primarily driven by health concerns and a desire to spend more time with his family. He had endured significant injuries throughout the show’s run, requiring multiple surgeries and physical therapy sessions. The demanding schedule and physical toll of the role had become increasingly challenging. He openly spoke about the strain on his body and the need to prioritize his well-being.
FAQ 2: Was the finale planned, or was the show canceled unexpectedly?
While CBS did not explicitly cancel Hawaii Five-0, the decision to end the series was largely influenced by O’Loughlin’s departure. The producers and network felt that the show would not be the same without him, and they opted to conclude the series gracefully rather than recast the role or continue without its central character. This suggests a mutually agreed-upon decision to end the series.
FAQ 3: What happened to Danny “Danno” Williams after McGarrett left?
The finale does not explicitly state what Danny’s future holds. However, it is implied that he will remain in Hawaii with his family and continue to work with the Five-0 team. His conversation with McGarrett strongly suggested a lasting friendship despite the geographical distance. It is reasonable to assume he continued to serve with the team and raise his children with Rachel.
FAQ 4: Did other original cast members leave before the final season?
Yes, several original cast members left before the final season. Grace Park (Kono Kalakaua) and Daniel Dae Kim (Chin Ho Kelly) left after Season 7 due to a pay dispute. Masi Oka (Max Bergman) also departed in Season 7 to pursue other opportunities. These departures significantly impacted the show’s dynamics.
FAQ 5: Is there any possibility of a Hawaii Five-0 reboot or revival?
While there are no immediate plans for a reboot or revival, the possibility remains open in the future. Television history is filled with successful revivals of popular shows. However, given the recency of the original reboot’s finale and the central role of Alex O’Loughlin, any future revival would likely need significant retooling.
FAQ 6: What was the fan reaction to McGarrett’s departure?
Fan reaction was mixed. While many understood and respected O’Loughlin’s decision, some viewers expressed disappointment at McGarrett’s exit. The ending was seen as bittersweet, acknowledging the need for closure while lamenting the loss of a beloved character.
FAQ 7: How did the Wo Fat storyline conclude in the finale?
The Wo Fat storyline concluded with the defeat of his widow, Daiyu Mei. She sought revenge for Wo Fat’s death, but Five-0 ultimately thwarted her plans. This provided a definitive end to the Wo Fat legacy, which had been a recurring threat throughout the series.
FAQ 8: Did the finale address other long-running storylines?
Yes, the finale touched upon several other long-running storylines, including Jerry Ortega’s legacy and the relationships between the various team members. While not every storyline received a definitive resolution, the episode provided a sense of closure for most major character arcs. The focus remained largely on McGarrett’s journey and the closure of the Wo Fat narrative.
FAQ 9: What was the significance of the episode’s title, “Aloha”?
“Aloha” is a Hawaiian word with multiple meanings, encompassing both greetings and farewells. In the context of the finale, it symbolized the show’s goodbye to its audience, its characters, and the state of Hawaii itself. It also represented the spirit of the show, which celebrated Hawaiian culture and values.
FAQ 10: Where can I watch the final episode of Hawaii Five-0?
The final episode of Hawaii Five-0 is available for streaming on platforms such as Paramount+ (formerly CBS All Access), Amazon Prime Video (for purchase or rental), and through digital retailers like iTunes and Google Play.
FAQ 11: Was there a series finale party for the cast and crew?
Details regarding a series finale party are scarce in the public domain. It’s likely that a private celebration occurred among the cast and crew to commemorate the end of the show. Production teams often mark the end of long projects with these kinds of celebrations.
FAQ 12: How does this Hawaii Five-0 differ from the original?
The reboot of Hawaii Five-0 retained the basic premise of the original series, but updated it for a modern audience. The reboot featured a more diverse cast, incorporated contemporary storylines, and emphasized action sequences. While paying homage to the original, the reboot established its own unique identity and appeal. The dynamic between McGarrett and Danno, while echoing the original, was uniquely developed.
The final episode of Hawaii Five-0 served as a fitting conclusion to a beloved television series. By tying up loose ends, honoring its characters, and acknowledging its legacy, “Aloha” provided a satisfying farewell to fans who had followed the show for a decade. While the show is gone, the spirit of Hawaii Five-0 lives on in the memories of its viewers.