In The Guardian’s “My TV Hero” series, George Takei not only admits to enjoying regular Five-0 fests with hubby Brad Altman, but that he is also a fan of Alex O’Loughlin!
The legendary actor goes on to say some great things about the current Steve McGarrett and the show:
What I especially like is the way Alex O’Loughlin has developed the lead character, Detective Steve McGarrett.
I was a big fan of the original series from way back in the 70s, when it was first televised. In those days, McGarrett was played as a granite, stolid character. But O’Loughlin has added more dimensions. He has been in other series, but I’ve not seen them – and I think that’s what makes his McGarrett much more interesting for me. I see it without the influence of other characters that he has created.
McGarrett is still the classic TV hero – courageous, strong, handsome and all that – but he is also tortured by his father’s death, and has a sense of responsibility for his family; as a son, and as a sibling. And that makes him a more layered character. The connections that he has developed with the other lead characters – Scott Caan, Daniel Dae Kim and Grace Park – have turned Hawaii Five-0 into a very interesting story. It’s a totally changed show, certainly in terms of rhythm and colour. And while I loved it back then for what it was, I love it even more for what it is today. It’s not just action and adventure any more, but an exploration of character and relationships as well. I love Hawaii, and the show lets me go there vicariously every week.
Mr. Takei, who will forever be associated with the iconic role of Hikaru Sulu on the original TV series Star Trek, appeared in an episode of Hawaii Five-0 in 1975 (“Death’s Name is Sam”) and clearly hopes that he will be able to add another to his résumé:
If that happens, I’m really looking forward to meeting Alex. I only know him as McGarrett, so I can’t wait to meet Alex O’Loughlin, the actor behind the character. And I’ll definitely tell him I’m a fan. Why would I not? I always enjoy it when someone comes up and says they’re a fan of mine.
I think the executive producers of Hawaii Five-0 would be thrilled to have him as a guest star – I know the fans would totally support such a decision!
See also the scan of the article in the gallery.
That photo of him riding a horse is simply gorgeous!
You know, I hope Alex understands what a compliment this is. I’ve met Mr. Takei twice; once when he spoke at my undergraduate university and once on a ferry boat to my home island in the Pacific Northwest. In fact, I met his husband, then partner, on the ferry boat, as well. They both exude kindness, class, and wisdom. I can honestly say I’ve never seen the original series, but I love the current one. And, if Mr. Takei ever makes a guest appearance on it, his appearance will just raise the current series’ level of excellence higher.
OMG I love love love this article!
Thank you George for appreciating Alex’s talent.
He is such an amusing man and I hope he does get the chance to guest star on Hawaii 5-0. Not only was he on the original H50 but this would be a double treat because he was on the original Star Trek. Orci and Kurtzman and Lenkov all could benefit from his appearance.
I’m sure Alex would be thrilled to have him on the show!
Thank you Mizz for reposting it. I squeeed like a little girl when I got the Google alert!
Thank you Mizz for this wonderful article. It is really amazing to read that George Takei enjoys watching Alex O’Loughlin on Hawaii Five-0. Alex O’Loughlin has really portrayed a memorable, heroic and outstanding Steve McGarrett on Hawaii Five-0.
