Kono Kalakaua, portrayed by Grace Park, bids farewell to the Hawaii Five-0 team in Season 7, Episode 21, titled “Ua Malo’o ka Wai” (The Water is Gone). Her departure marks a significant shift in the series dynamic, leaving fans curious about the reasons behind her exit and the narrative choices that led to it.
Tracing Kono’s Journey: From Rookie to Advocate
Kono’s character arc on Hawaii Five-0 was a compelling one, starting as a promising rookie fresh out of the police academy and evolving into a skilled and resourceful member of the elite task force. Her dedication to justice and her deep connection to her Hawaiian heritage resonated with viewers. Understanding the foundation of her character helps contextualize the impact of her eventual departure.
The Early Years: Finding Her Feet
Initially, Kono faced prejudice and skepticism due to her gender and inexperience. However, she quickly proved her worth, demonstrating courage, intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to her team. This initial struggle made her subsequent accomplishments all the more satisfying for viewers.
Growth and Evolution: Beyond the Badge
As the series progressed, Kono’s character deepened. She grappled with moral dilemmas, faced personal challenges, and ultimately transformed into a seasoned officer and a strong advocate for marginalized communities. This evolution made her character particularly compelling and relatable.
The Episode in Question: “Ua Malo’o ka Wai” (The Water is Gone)
The episode “Ua Malo’o ka Wai” serves as the culmination of Kono’s ongoing storyline involving sex trafficking. While she doesn’t die, she chooses to leave Hawaii to pursue her own path – rescuing and helping trafficked girls on the mainland.
The Plot: A Mission of Justice
The episode sees Kono investigating a ring of sex traffickers who are preying on vulnerable young women. This investigation resonates deeply with her personal sense of justice and pushes her to her limits. The case becomes intensely personal, driving her to make a life-altering decision.
The Decision: Leaving Hawaii Behind
Ultimately, Kono decides that her calling lies in combating sex trafficking full-time. She informs McGarrett and the team of her decision to leave Hawaii and dedicate herself to this crucial cause on the mainland. This departure is presented as a selfless act motivated by a deep sense of empathy and responsibility.
Unraveling the Reasons: Beyond the Narrative
While the episode itself provides a narrative explanation for Kono’s departure, behind-the-scenes factors also played a role. Understanding these complexities provides a more complete picture of the situation.
Contract Negotiations: The Salary Dispute
It is widely reported that Grace Park, along with Daniel Dae Kim (who played Chin Ho Kelly), left Hawaii Five-0 due to failed contract negotiations. Both actors reportedly sought equal pay with their white co-stars, Alex O’Loughlin and Scott Caan, but were unsuccessful.
Creative Differences: A Possible Factor
While salary disputes were the primary public reason, creative differences may have also contributed to the actors’ decisions. The exact nature of these alleged differences remains largely undisclosed, but they likely played a role in the overall negotiation process.
The Impact: After Kono’s Departure
Kono’s absence was felt by fans of the show, impacting the dynamic of the Five-0 team. Her departure created a void that was only partially filled by subsequent characters.
Shifting Dynamics: Filling the Void
The writers attempted to fill the void left by Kono’s departure by introducing new characters and storylines. However, Kono’s unique skills and personality were difficult to replicate, and the team dynamic was noticeably altered.
Fan Reaction: Disappointment and Understanding
Many fans expressed disappointment at Kono’s departure, particularly given the circumstances surrounding it. However, some also understood and supported her decision, both as a character within the narrative and as an actress advocating for equal pay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 frequently asked questions concerning Kono’s departure from Hawaii Five-0:
FAQ 1: Is Kono Kalakaua killed off in Hawaii Five-0?
No, Kono is not killed off. She leaves to pursue a mission against sex trafficking on the mainland. This allows for the possibility of her returning in the future, although she does not.
FAQ 2: Why did Grace Park leave Hawaii Five-0?
The primary reason given was a salary dispute. Park and Daniel Dae Kim reportedly sought equal pay with their white co-stars but were not offered it.
FAQ 3: What episode does Kono leave Hawaii Five-0?
Kono departs in Season 7, Episode 21: “Ua Malo’o ka Wai” (The Water is Gone).
FAQ 4: Does Kono ever return to Hawaii Five-0?
No, Kono does not return to the series after Season 7, Episode 21.
FAQ 5: What is Kono doing after leaving Hawaii Five-0?
She is fighting against sex trafficking on the mainland, specifically rescuing and assisting trafficked girls.
FAQ 6: Did Kono’s departure affect the show’s ratings?
While ratings fluctuate for various reasons, her departure likely had some impact. Fan reactions suggest a decrease in viewership among those who were invested in her character.
FAQ 7: Were there any plans for Kono to return in later seasons?
There have been no confirmed plans or announcements regarding Grace Park returning to the show.
FAQ 8: What was the in-universe explanation for Kono’s exit?
The show explained her departure as a personal decision to dedicate herself to combating sex trafficking on the mainland.
FAQ 9: Did the other actors on the show comment on Grace Park’s departure?
Several actors made brief statements, generally expressing support for Park and Kim’s decisions and acknowledging their contributions to the show. Alex O’Loughlin made more extensive comments, acknowledging the complexity of the situation.
FAQ 10: Was there any backlash against the show’s producers for the salary dispute?
Yes, there was significant backlash on social media and in the media, with many viewers criticizing CBS for not offering Park and Kim equal pay.
FAQ 11: Did any other major characters leave the show at the same time as Kono?
Yes, Daniel Dae Kim, who played Chin Ho Kelly, also left the show at the same time as Grace Park due to the same salary dispute.
FAQ 12: How was Kono’s absence addressed in subsequent seasons?
The show occasionally referenced Kono’s work on the mainland but did not significantly explore her storyline after her departure. She was mentioned periodically to remind the audience of her continuing fight against sex trafficking.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
Kono Kalakaua’s departure from Hawaii Five-0 was a pivotal moment in the show’s history, influenced by both narrative choices and behind-the-scenes realities. While her absence was felt by many, her character’s strength and dedication continue to resonate with viewers, leaving a lasting legacy.