Alex O'Loughlin and Scott Caan can certainly feel the “Hawaii Five-O” loyalty and spirit generated by multiplied millions of fans tuning in week to week. Not even the leading men could have had a clue of the stormy summer that ended in a loss of two of the “Five-O” “ohana.” Daniel Dae Kim and Grace Park are going onto futures on other sets and settings after failing to achieve parity in pay status for their roles.
Like the professionals that they are, Alex O'Loughlin and Scott Caan have seems to shoot, and cases to crack for Season 8, so the partners carry in their television duty to serve and protect, and give fans another “Hawaii Five-O” season to savor.
While fans can rejoice in the prospect of having another full season of “arguments” and capturing perpetrators between the beloved partners, a longtime “Hawaii Five-O” tradition won’t be happening for the new season premiere.
The good, the bad, the bloody, and the soggy
Photos shared on Alex O'Loughlin Online for August 6 show that the island weather conditions have not been so kind through the last week.
There are tents constructed to offer protection to the cast between the shoots. A few images present the bright, tropical sun, but more show torrential rains from storms passing through. Scott Caan and Alex O'Loughlin are carrying on, and in a few photos from a local photographer, fan-favorite guest star, Chris Vance, appears. That’s confirmation of more happy news for “Hawaii Five-O” that executive producer, Peter Lenkov, hinted at in earlier interviews.
Peter Lenkov posted another delightful snippet on Instagram that long time fans will treasure. The clip focuses solely on Alex O'Loughlin's McGarrett addressing Scott Caan’s Danny, in a dimly-lit room, giving the affirmation “I believe in you, I believe in us, and that’s all that matters. We clear?” Danny responds “I guess so,” with his typical shrug-smile.
The scene seems to set the stage for the brotherly bond that comes so naturally between the co-stars to be a binding force for Season 8, with so many new faces and stories entering the force, even as familiar support cast become regulars. The burden of keeping faithful viewers will fall on the shoulders of Alex O'Loughlin and Scott Caan, so let’s hope the quality of the writing stays worthy.
Alex O'Loughlin also took a moment to take a photo with an office accountant from the company that provides support for the helicopter scenes of the show at Makani Kai. She wasn't disturbed by her hero’s face covered in blood because this time it was only a prop, nothing personal.
So long to ‘Sunset’ this season
Alex O'Loughlin hasn’t had to surrender too much of his body thus far this season by the looks of the photos, but the season is young. Maybe if he and Scott Caan can manage more shoots near apartments, hotels, and the beach, “McDanno” can be maintained for many more seasons. Scott Caan already maintains a briefer schedule of episodes in order to spend time with his family in California. Alex O'Loughlin has endured numerous injuries over his seasons, particularly to his back, which has been problematic. He has discussed that stem-cell therapies have brought relief.
Fans won’t feel any relief in the news from Peter Lenkov that the traditional “Sunset on the Beach” premiere party will not take place this year.
Many fans have planned vacations around the event from season to season. The relaxed setting always allowed cast and fans to mingle and celebrate a new season as only “Hawaii Five-O” can.
Alex O'Loughlin and Scott Caan both share birthdays just a day apart this month. That traditional celebration and another season are still a great reason to smile and light some candles.