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With its picturesque Hawaiian backdrops and thrilling police procedural plots, Hawaii Five-O became a hugely popular show after it first debuted in 1968. Running for 12 successful seasons, the original version of Hawaii Five-O cemented its place as a classic, iconic series.
In 2010, CBS launched a reboot of the show starring Alex O’Loughlin as Steve McGarrett and Scott Caan as Danny “Danno” Williams. Much like its predecessor, the reboot garnered strong viewership and was a hit for CBS. However, in February 2020, CBS announced that the reboot’s tenth season would be its last.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Yes, the reboot of Hawaii Five-O that began airing in 2010 has been cancelled as of 2020.
In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at the history of Hawaii Five-O, from the original series to the modern reboot. We’ll explore the reasons for the reboot’s cancellation and examine how the show changed over its 10 season run.
Whether you’re a new or long-time fan, read on to learn all about the rise and fall of Hawaii Five-O.
The Original Hawaii Five-O Series (1968-1980)
Overview and Impact of the Original Series
The original Hawaii Five-O series, which aired from 1968 to 1980, was a groundbreaking police procedural drama set in the beautiful backdrop of Hawaii.
Created by Leonard Freeman, the show followed the investigations of an elite state police unit led by Detective Steve McGarrett, played by Jack Lord.
The show not only brought the stunning landscapes of Hawaii into living rooms across America, but it also introduced viewers to a new style of crime-solving with its emphasis on forensic science and cutting-edge investigative techniques.
The impact of the original Hawaii Five-O series cannot be overstated. It paved the way for future police procedural dramas and set the standard for high-quality storytelling and character development.
Its unique blend of action, suspense, and stunning visuals captivated audiences and established a loyal fan base that remains passionate to this day.
Also read: Is There A Real Hawaii Five-0?
Cast, Characters, and Storylines
The original Hawaii Five-O series boasted a talented ensemble cast that brought the characters to life.
In addition to Jack Lord’s iconic portrayal of Detective Steve McGarrett, the show featured James MacArthur as Detective Danny Williams, Kam Fong as Detective Chin Ho Kelly, and Zulu as Detective Kono Kalakaua.
These characters formed a tight-knit team that tackled a wide range of criminal cases, from murder and drug trafficking to espionage and organized crime.
The show’s storylines were gripping and often tackled social issues of the time. From the Vietnam War to civil rights and environmental concerns, Hawaii Five-O didn’t shy away from addressing important topics.
The series delved deep into the complexities of crime-solving while also exploring the personal lives and relationships of its characters, adding depth and dimension to the show.
Popularity and Accolades
The original Hawaii Five-O series quickly became a hit with audiences, consistently ranking among the top-rated shows during its 12-year run.
Its popularity extended beyond the United States, with fans worldwide tuning in to watch the thrilling adventures of the Hawaii Five-O team.
The show received critical acclaim and was nominated for numerous awards, including Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards.
Jack Lord’s portrayal of Detective Steve McGarrett earned him a dedicated fan base and solidified his status as a television icon. The series also left a lasting legacy, inspiring spin-offs, remakes, and even a current reboot of the show.
For more information on the original Hawaii Five-O series, you can visit CBS.com or IMDb.com.
Rebooting Hawaii Five-O in 2010
In 2010, the popular crime drama series Hawaii Five-O was rebooted, much to the excitement of fans and television enthusiasts alike.
The decision to bring back the show was driven by a combination of factors that aimed to breathe new life into the beloved franchise.
Reasons for Rebooting the Series
One of the main reasons for rebooting Hawaii Five-O was the enduring popularity of the original series, which aired from 1968 to 1980.
The show had a dedicated fan base and was known for its captivating storylines, stunning Hawaiian scenery, and memorable characters.
By rebooting the series, the creators aimed to introduce the show to a new generation of viewers while also providing a nostalgic experience for long-time fans.
Additionally, the success of other rebooted shows, such as Battlestar Galactica and Dallas, played a role in the decision to bring back Hawaii Five-O.
These shows demonstrated that there was a market for reviving beloved television series and that audiences were eager to see familiar characters and storylines in a modern context.
Updating the Show for Modern Audiences
When rebooting Hawaii Five-O, the creators wanted to ensure that the show would resonate with modern audiences.
They recognized the need to update the storylines, characters, and overall tone of the series to reflect the current cultural landscape. This meant incorporating current social issues, utilizing modern technology, and exploring more complex character development.
One significant change in the rebooted series was the increased focus on serialized storytelling.
While the original show primarily consisted of standalone episodes, the rebooted version introduced longer story arcs that allowed for more in-depth exploration of characters and their relationships.
This shift in storytelling style added a layer of depth and complexity to the show, appealing to viewers who craved more immersive television experiences.
Casting of Main Characters
The casting of the main characters in the rebooted Hawaii Five-O was a crucial aspect of the show’s success. The producers aimed to find actors who could bring new life to the iconic roles while honoring the original portrayals.
The chemistry between O’Loughlin and Caan was instrumental in capturing the dynamic partnership between their characters, which was a cornerstone of the show’s appeal.
The supporting cast, including Grace Park, Daniel Dae Kim, and Masi Oka, also brought their own unique talents and charisma to the series, helping to create a diverse and engaging ensemble.
Run of the Reboot Series (2010-2020)
The reboot of the classic crime drama “Hawaii Five-O” premiered in 2010 and captivated audiences with its thrilling storylines and compelling characters.
Over the course of its 10-season run, the show evolved in various ways, keeping viewers hooked and eagerly awaiting each new episode.
Evolution of Storylines and Characters
The reboot series brought a fresh perspective to the iconic “Hawaii Five-O” franchise, introducing new storylines and characters while paying homage to the original series.
The show explored a wide range of criminal cases, from drug trafficking to human trafficking, and often incorporated elements of Hawaiian culture and history into its narratives.
This blend of action, drama, and cultural significance contributed to the show’s popularity and longevity.
The characters in the reboot series also went through significant development. Led by the charismatic Steve McGarrett, played by Alex O’Loughlin, the Five-O task force tackled crime with determination and a strong sense of justice.
Each member of the team, including the resourceful Danny Williams (Scott Caan) and the tech-savvy Tani Rey (Meaghan Rath), brought unique skills and personality to the show, creating a dynamic and entertaining ensemble.
Viewership and Ratings Over 10 Seasons
Throughout its run, “Hawaii Five-O” enjoyed a dedicated fan base and consistently strong viewership. The show attracted millions of viewers each week, both in the United States and internationally.
Its blend of thrilling action, engaging storylines, and stunning Hawaiian scenery proved to be a winning formula.
According to Nielsen ratings, the show consistently ranked among the top-rated dramas on network television. In fact, during its peak, “Hawaii Five-O” even surpassed other popular crime dramas in terms of viewership.
The show’s ability to maintain a large and loyal audience for 10 seasons is a testament to its quality and enduring appeal.
Awards and Recognition
The success of “Hawaii Five-O” was not only reflected in its viewership but also in the recognition it received within the industry. The show garnered multiple nominations and awards throughout its run, including Primetime Emmy Awards and People’s Choice Awards.
One of the most notable achievements of the reboot series was the recognition it received for its stunt work.
The action-packed scenes and thrilling sequences were choreographed and executed with precision, earning the show critical acclaim and establishing it as a leader in the genre.
In addition to the accolades for its technical aspects, “Hawaii Five-O” was also praised for its diverse cast and representation. The show showcased a range of cultures and ethnicities, highlighting the rich diversity of Hawaii and promoting inclusivity in television.
Cancellation of the Hawaii Five-O Reboot
After a successful run of 10 seasons, the popular crime drama series, Hawaii Five-O, has sadly been cancelled.
The news came as a shock to many fans who had grown attached to the show’s beloved characters and thrilling storylines. But what were the factors that led to this decision?
Factors Leading to Cancellation
One of the main factors contributing to the cancellation of Hawaii Five-O was the declining viewership ratings in recent seasons. While the show initially garnered a large and dedicated fanbase, over time, the numbers began to dwindle.
This decline in viewership ultimately led to a decrease in ad revenue, making it financially unsustainable for the network to continue producing the show.
Additionally, the high production costs associated with filming in Hawaii also played a role in the cancellation. The stunning landscapes and unique setting of the show undoubtedly added to its appeal, but it also meant higher expenses for the production team.
As budgets tightened, it became increasingly difficult to justify the costs of filming on the islands.
Furthermore, the departure of key cast members, such as Daniel Dae Kim and Grace Park, who played fan-favorite characters Chin Ho Kelly and Kono Kalakaua, respectively, also impacted the show’s future.
Their absence created a void that proved challenging to fill, and the chemistry and dynamic of the original cast were never quite the same.
Also read: Why Did Kono Leave Hawaii Five-O?
Reactions from Cast, Crew, and Fans
When news of the cancellation broke, the cast, crew, and fans expressed their sadness and gratitude for the show’s run.
Many took to social media to share their memories and experiences working on Hawaii Five-O. The camaraderie and friendships that were formed behind the scenes were evident in their heartfelt messages.
The fans, in particular, were vocal about their disappointment in the show’s cancellation. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of support and petitions to bring back the beloved series.
The impact that Hawaii Five-O had on its viewers was undeniable, and they were determined to make their voices heard.
Series Finale and Looking Back
The series finale of Hawaii Five-O provided closure for fans who had invested in the show for a decade.
The final episode tied up loose ends and gave each character a proper send-off. It was an emotional farewell that left many viewers with mixed feelings of sadness and satisfaction.
Looking back on the legacy of Hawaii Five-O, it’s clear that the show had a significant impact on both the television industry and the state of Hawaii. It showcased the beauty of the islands and introduced viewers to its rich culture and history.
The show also paved the way for diverse representation in television, with its diverse cast and inclusion of Hawaiian mythology and traditions.
While the cancellation of Hawaii Five-O is undoubtedly disappointing for its devoted fanbase, it will forever be remembered as a groundbreaking series that brought the beauty of Hawaii into the homes of millions of viewers around the world.
Also read: Watching Hawaii Five-0 On Project Free Tv In 2023
Conclusion
For 12 seasons between 1968 to 1980, the original Hawaii Five-O enthralled viewers with its tropical setting and crime-fighting action.
The 2010 reboot aimed to capture that same magic for a new generation of fans. While the reboot did achieve solid ratings and popularity initially, audience numbers eventually dwindled, leading CBS to cancel the show in 2020.
Over its 10 season run, the reboot made its mark in television history, even if it couldn’t sustain the enduring legacy of the original.
Whether you preferred the classic Hawaii Five-O or its modern remake, there’s no denying these shows brought the allure of Hawaii into living rooms across America and delivered some highly entertaining police drama along the way.
