Honolulu, Hawaii - When Hawaii Five-O debuted in 1968, it was a game-changing television show. Against the lush backdrop of Hawaii, it combined hard-edged crime procedural elements with espionage and international intrigue, delivering a series that was both unique and strikingly cinematic. Yet, beneath the palm trees, sharp suits, and intense showdowns, there’s a palpable influence from another cultural juggernaut of the time: the James Bond franchise.
Jack Lord, the iconic face of Steve McGarrett, was no stranger to espionage-style storytelling. In Dr. No (1962), the very first James Bond film, Lord played CIA agent Felix Leiter opposite Sean Connery's 007. His suave demeanor and commanding presence left an impression, but Lord reportedly turned down future appearances in the role because he wanted equal billing with Connery—something the Bond producers weren’t prepared to offer.
This anecdote provides a key insight into Lord's ambitions. He wasn't content being a supporting player; he wanted a leading role, something grand and iconic. Hawaii Five-O became that platform. Steve McGarrett wasn’t just a police officer—he was a larger-than-life figure, tackling international crime syndicates, espionage plots, and larger conspiracies, all while maintaining a Bond-like charisma.
By the time Hawaii Five-O hit the airwaves, the Bond franchise had already released several blockbuster films, including Goldfinger and Thunderball. The Bond formula was proven: exotic locations, high-stakes action, and a central hero who exuded authority and sophistication. It’s not a stretch to believe that someone in the creative machine behind Hawaii Five-O saw the Bond films’ success and said, "We need a piece of that pie."
Many Hawaii Five-O episodes lean into Bond-like narratives. Steve McGarrett frequently dealt with shadowy organizations, foreign agents, and elaborate plots that went far beyond street-level crime. The espionage-laden plots, combined with McGarrett's sharp suits and commanding presence, often felt like they could have been lifted straight from a Bond screenplay.
Jack Lord was more than just the star—he was deeply involved in the show’s production and direction. Known for his attention to detail and commanding presence both on and off-camera, Lord shaped McGarrett into a role that mirrored the kind of stardom Connery had achieved.
