The final episode of CBS’s reimagined Hawaii Five-0 aired on April 3, 2020, marking the end of a decade-long run. This reboot, which premiered in 2010, brought a fresh perspective to the classic crime drama, captivating audiences worldwide with its stunning visuals, thrilling action, and compelling characters.
The End of an Era: Understanding the Series Finale
The decision to end Hawaii Five-0 after ten seasons came as a surprise to many fans. While the show maintained a strong viewership base, several factors contributed to the decision. Ultimately, the series finale provided closure for the core characters and allowed viewers to bid farewell to the beloved team.
The Airing of the Last Episode
The series finale, titled “Aloha,” was a two-hour special that aired on April 3, 2020. This event served as a heartfelt send-off to the iconic show. The episode wasn’t just another case; it was a carefully crafted goodbye to characters we had grown to love over the decade.
More than Just a Case: Emotional Resonance
The “Aloha” episode skillfully wove together a compelling case with poignant reflections on the team’s journey. Viewers were treated to scenes showcasing the characters’ camaraderie, highlighting the bonds forged through years of fighting crime and facing personal challenges. It explored themes of family, legacy, and the bittersweet reality of moving on. The episode ensured that the series concluded on a satisfying and emotionally resonant note.
Hawaii Five-0 FAQs: Unpacking the Show’s Legacy
These frequently asked questions aim to provide more insight into the show, its ending, and its impact.
FAQ 1: Why Did Hawaii Five-0 End?
The official reason given for the show’s cancellation was the departure of Alex O’Loughlin, who played Steve McGarrett. His persistent back injuries, sustained from performing stunts throughout the series, made it difficult for him to continue in the physically demanding role. While other cast members were also considering their futures, O’Loughlin’s decision served as the catalyst for ending the series.
FAQ 2: What Happened in the Series Finale?
In the “Aloha” finale, the Five-0 team worked to stop a bombing plot orchestrated by a familiar enemy. McGarrett, after a decade of chasing down criminals, made the decision to leave Hawaii for a while to reconnect with Catherine Rollins (his former love interest) and find himself. The episode concluded with a montage of memories, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the Five-0 team.
FAQ 3: Will There Ever Be a Hawaii Five-0 Reboot?
While there are currently no confirmed plans for a complete reboot of Hawaii Five-0, the franchise has continued with the spinoff series, “Magnum P.I.,” which has included several crossover episodes featuring characters from the original and reboot series. A direct reboot remains possible in the future, but for now, the franchise is focused on interconnected storylines within the existing universe.
FAQ 4: Where Can I Watch All the Episodes of Hawaii Five-0?
All ten seasons of the Hawaii Five-0 reboot are available for streaming on Paramount+. Additionally, episodes can often be purchased or rented through platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play. Availability may vary depending on your region.
FAQ 5: Who Were the Main Characters of the Hawaii Five-0 Reboot?
The core team consisted of:
- Steve McGarrett (Alex O’Loughlin): The leader of the Five-0 task force.
- Danny “Danno” Williams (Scott Caan): McGarrett’s partner, often providing comedic relief.
- Chin Ho Kelly (Daniel Dae Kim): A former police lieutenant and McGarrett’s friend.
- Kono Kalakaua (Grace Park): Chin Ho’s cousin and a skilled surfer-turned-police officer.
- Lou Grover (Chi McBride): A former SWAT commander who joined Five-0 in later seasons.
- Jerry Ortega (Jorge Garcia): A conspiracy theorist turned valuable member of the team.
- Tani Rey (Meaghan Rath): A recruit mentored by McGarrett and Danno.
- Junior Reigns (Beulah Koale): A former Navy SEAL who joins the Five-0 team.
FAQ 6: Was the Hawaii Five-0 Reboot Different from the Original Series?
Yes, while the reboot retained the core premise of a state police unit fighting crime in Hawaii, it introduced several key differences. The reboot incorporated more serialized storylines, delving deeper into the characters’ personal lives and relationships. It also featured a more diverse cast and incorporated modern technology and crime-solving techniques. Furthermore, the tone of the reboot was often lighter, with more emphasis on humor and camaraderie.
FAQ 7: Did Any of the Original Hawaii Five-0 Actors Appear in the Reboot?
Yes, several actors from the original Hawaii Five-0 made cameo appearances in the reboot. James MacArthur, who played Danny “Danno” Williams in the original series, appeared in a photograph during the first season. Jack Lord, who played Steve McGarrett in the original series, was honored with a statue at the Honolulu Police Department headquarters. Also, some of the original series’ storylines were referenced in the reboot.
FAQ 8: Were There Any Crossover Episodes with Other Shows?
Yes, Hawaii Five-0 had crossover episodes with other CBS shows, most notably NCIS: Los Angeles and MacGyver. These crossovers allowed characters from different series to collaborate on cases, bringing together diverse skill sets and perspectives. These events were often popular with fans and helped to expand the interconnected CBS universe.
FAQ 9: What Impact Did Hawaii Five-0 Have on Hawaii?
Hawaii Five-0 had a significant impact on the Hawaiian economy and tourism industry. The show employed numerous local cast and crew members and showcased the islands’ stunning scenery to a global audience. Tourism to Hawaii increased during the show’s run, and many fans visited the islands specifically to see locations featured in the series. The show also contributed to the revitalization of Hawaiian culture and language.
FAQ 10: Did Alex O’Loughlin Ever Discuss His Back Injuries?
Yes, Alex O’Loughlin openly discussed his struggles with back pain throughout his time on Hawaii Five-0. He underwent stem cell therapy and other treatments to manage the pain and continue performing his role. He cited the demanding physical nature of the show as a major factor in his decision to leave. He was always grateful to the show and the audience for their support, but admitted the toll the show took on his body.
FAQ 11: Was There a Hawaii Five-0 Prequel in Development?
In late 2023, there was active development on a potential Hawaii Five-0 prequel series, tentatively titled “Young McGarrett“. The project was reported to be in the script-writing stage and aimed to explore the backstory of Steve McGarrett, showcasing his early years and the events that shaped him. However, as of late 2024, the status of the project is uncertain and no official announcement has been made about its production.
FAQ 12: Where Can I Find Outtakes or Behind-The-Scenes Footage of Hawaii Five-0?
Many fan-made videos and official clips containing outtakes and behind-the-scenes footage of Hawaii Five-0 are readily available on YouTube. Official accounts associated with CBS and the show’s cast members frequently share these types of videos to offer a glimpse into the production of the show. Some older videos might be harder to find due to copyright and website archival issues, but with some digging, plenty of material is still accessible.
Aloha and Mahalo: The Enduring Appeal
Hawaii Five-0, even after its final episode aired, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of its fans. Its blend of action, drama, humor, and breathtaking scenery created a unique and compelling viewing experience. The show’s emphasis on family, loyalty, and the spirit of aloha resonated with audiences around the world. While the series may have concluded, its legacy lives on through reruns, streaming services, and the enduring memories of its loyal viewers. Its impact on television and on the Hawaiian islands themselves remains undeniable. The sun may have set on this particular chapter of Hawaii Five-0, but the spirit of the show continues to shine brightly.