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The classic police drama Hawaii Five-O aired on CBS from 1968 to 1980, delighting viewers with the beautiful Hawaiian scenery and thrilling adventures of an elite state police task force. Decades later, audiences still have fond memories of the show and its stars. If you’re wondering where the original Hawaii Five-O cast is today, read on for a comprehensive update.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Most of the main Five-O stars like Jack Lord, James MacArthur, and Kam Fong are no longer living, having passed away between the 1990s and 2000s. Supporting cast members like Herman Wedemeyer, Al Harrington, and Zulu are also deceased. However, a few actors like Elizabeth Smith and Peggy Ryan are still alive today in their 80s and 90s.
Jack Lord (Steve McGarrett)
Jack Lord, known for his iconic role as Steve McGarrett in the original “Hawaii Five-O” series, left a lasting impact on television.
Born on December 30, 1920, in Brooklyn, New York, Lord’s portrayal of the tough and determined detective made him a household name.
His character, Steve McGarrett, was known for his catchphrase “Book ’em, Danno!” which became synonymous with the show.
After “Hawaii Five-O” ended in 1980, Jack Lord took a step back from the spotlight. He focused on his personal life and philanthropic endeavors.
He was passionate about art and eventually became an accomplished painter, with his works being displayed in galleries around the world. Lord’s artistic talent allowed him to express his creativity in a different way.
In 1998, at the age of 77, Jack Lord passed away in Honolulu, Hawaii. His legacy lives on through his memorable portrayal of Steve McGarrett and his contributions to the art world.
To learn more about Jack Lord and his life outside of “Hawaii Five-O”, you can visit rememberingjacklord.com/biography .This website provides a comprehensive look into his career, art, and philanthropy.
James MacArthur (Danny “Danno” Williams)
James MacArthur, best known for his role as Danny “Danno” Williams on Hawaii Five-O, made a lasting impression on audiences with his portrayal of the quick-witted detective.
MacArthur’s character, known for his catchphrase “Book ’em, Danno“, was a fan favorite throughout the show’s run.
After Hawaii Five-O ended in 1980, MacArthur continued to act in various film and television projects. He made guest appearances on popular shows such as Magnum, P.I. and Murder, She Wrote.
However, MacArthur’s true passion lay in the theater, and he dedicated much of his time to stage productions.
Tragically, James MacArthur passed away in 2010 at the age of 72. His contributions to the entertainment industry and his iconic role on Hawaii Five-O will always be remembered.
Kam Fong (Chin Ho Kelly)
Kam Fong, who played the iconic role of Chin Ho Kelly in Hawaii Five-O, was a beloved character on the show.
Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Fong brought authenticity to his portrayal of the local detective. His portrayal of Chin Ho Kelly was praised for its depth and complexity.
After his time on Hawaii Five-O, Fong continued to act in various television shows and films.
However, he sadly passed away in 2002 at the age of 84. His legacy lives on through his memorable performances and the impact he made on the show.
If you’re interested in learning more about Kam Fong and his contributions to Hawaii Five-O, you can visit IMDb for a detailed biography and filmography.
Herman Wedemeyer (Duke Lukela)
Herman Wedemeyer, who played the beloved character Duke Lukela in Hawaii Five-O, had a diverse and successful career both on and off the screen. After his time on the show, Wedemeyer continued to act in various television series and films.
He also pursued a career in professional football, playing for the Los Angeles Dons in the All-America Football Conference. Wedemeyer’s athleticism was showcased in his role as Duke Lukela, where he often showcased his physical abilities during action-packed scenes.
Outside of his acting career, Wedemeyer made significant contributions to his community. He served as a detective in the Honolulu Police Department for over 30 years, using his experience on the show to bring an authentic perspective to his work.
Wedemeyer’s dedication to his role and his commitment to public service made him a beloved figure both on and off the screen.
In 2023, Wedemeyer’s legacy continues to live on. While he may no longer be with us, his impact on the entertainment industry and the community of Hawaii remains.
Fans of Hawaii Five-O can still enjoy Wedemeyer’s performances by watching reruns of the show, keeping his memory and contributions to the series alive.
Zulu (Kono Kalakaua)
Zulu, also known as Kono Kalakaua, was a beloved character on Hawaii Five-O. Portrayed by the talented Gilbert Francis Lani Damian Kauhi, Zulu was a former surfer and member of the Five-O task force.
His character brought a unique blend of athleticism and intelligence to the show.
Gilbert Francis Lani Damian Kauhi passed away on May 3, 2004. He was 66 years old at the time of his death.
Zulu was a beloved actor, and his role as Kono Kalakaua in the original “Hawaii Five-O” series left a lasting legacy in television history.
Conclusion
That covers what happened to the major stars and cast members from the original Hawaii Five-O series after the show ended. Most passed away years ago, but a few are still around today in their golden years.
The iconic police drama made stars out of its talented cast and left behind a lasting legacy as one of the greatest cop shows in TV history. Its tropical island setting and exciting plotlines endure in fans’ memories decades later.
