In the vast landscape of television history, certain episodes stand out for their compelling
storytelling, unforgettable performances, or groundbreaking and often controversial
content.
However, some episodes become infamous not for what they contain, but for their absence.
They air once, only to disappear, becoming specters in the annals of their respective
series.
One such episode belongs to the iconic series, Hawaii Five-O, an episode that has been shrouded
in mystery and intrigue for decades.
The classic American television aired from 1968 to 1980 and captivated audiences for
decades with its thrilling plotlines, memorable characters, and picturesque Hawaiian setting.
With its stunning filming location, complex storylines, unforgettable characters, and
daring episodes, Hawaii Five-O has made an unforgettable impact on the American television
scene.
Join FactsVerse as we dive into the controversy of the show's banned episode and other interesting
facts.
The Origin and Evolution of Hawaii Five-O
Hawaii Five-O was created by Leonard Freeman and produced by CBS Productions.
The show was set in Honolulu, Hawaii, and followed the fictional state police force,
"Five-O," led by the stern and unyielding Steve McGarrett, played by Jack Lord.
The show was known for its catchphrase, "Book 'em, Danno," which became a part of pop culture
lexicon.
The series was groundbreaking in many ways.
It was the first American television show to be filmed entirely on location in Hawaii,
providing viewers with a glimpse into the island's unique culture and breathtaking landscapes.
It was a significant departure from the norm then, as most television shows were filmed
in studios.
The show's title, "Five-O," is a play on Hawaii's status as the 50th state of the United States,
adding another layer of authenticity to the series.
Throughout its twelve-year run, Hawaii Five-O evolved to reflect changing times.
The show tackled a variety of social issues and was not afraid to push boundaries.
It was also known for its high production values, with the beautiful Hawaiian scenery
serving as a stunning backdrop for the action-packed episodes.
The Intricate Plotlines and Characters
Hawaii Five-O was not just a television show; it was a masterclass in storytelling.
The series was renowned for its intricate plotlines that delved into the murky world
of international espionage, the dangerous underbelly of organized crime, and many other
criminal activities.
Each episode was a labyrinth of suspense and intrigue, with the writers skillfully weaving
complex narratives that kept viewers perpetually on the edge of their seats.
Every episode was a complete drama unto itself, a little world of tension and suspense in
which the Five-O team raced against the clock to solve the problem at hand.
The stakes were always high, the tension palpable, and the resolution satisfying, making each
episode a thrilling ride for the viewers.
In addition, the plotlines were not just about solving crimes but about exploring human nature,
societal issues, and the gray areas of morality, making the show a thought-provoking experience.
The characters in Hawaii Five-O were the heart and soul of the series, as compelling as the
plotlines they navigated.
Steve McGarrett, the lead character, was a beacon of unwavering dedication to justice.
His relentless pursuit of criminals, no-nonsense approach to law enforcement, and steadfast
adherence to his moral compass made him a beloved character among viewers.
But McGarrett was not alone in his crusade against crime.
His team, including Danny "Danno" Williams, Chin Ho Kelly, and Kono Kalakaua, each brought
their unique skills, personalities, and perspectives to the table, adding depth and diversity to
the show.
Danno, with his sharp wit and unwavering loyalty; Chin Ho, with his wisdom and resilience; and
Kono, with his strength and dedication, were more than just supporting characters.
They were integral pieces of the Hawaii Five-O puzzle, each contributing to the team's success
in their unique way.
The mesmerizing twists and turns of Hawaii Five-O's plot and its captivating characters
were not just mere components of a hit TV series.
Rather, they were integral parts of a series that forever altered American television.
Behind the Scenes
Behind the scenes of the iconic series Hawaii Five-O, a dedicated cast and crew worked tirelessly
to bring the vibrant world of the show to life.
The cast and crew of Hawaii Five-O were much more than just a team; they were a well-oiled
machine, each member playing a crucial role in the creation of the series.
From the actors who brought the characters to life, to the writers who crafted the intricate
plotlines, to the directors who guided the vision of the show, every individual was integral
to the production of Hawaii Five-O.
The show was renowned for its meticulous attention to detail.
This was evident in the accurate portrayal of Hawaiian culture, from the local customs
and traditions to the unique dialect and slang.
The realistic depiction of police procedures added another layer of authenticity to the
show, reflecting the team's commitment to creating a believable world for the viewers.
This dedication to realism permeated every aspect of the show, even the antagonists.
In Hawaii Five-O, the villains were not flat stereotypes but rather multifaceted people
with their own goals and histories.
The complex antagonists portrayed here helped elevate the show's storytelling and keep viewers
on the edge of their seats.
However, there were certain difficulties throughout the making of Hawaii Five-O.
The challenges of filming in Hawaii were special.
Extreme temperatures and heavy downpours presented formidable organizational obstacles.
The production also faced challenges when shooting on-site instead of in a studio.
The crew confronted a variety of difficulties, such as moving large pieces of equipment,
scheduling shoots during daylight hours, and maintaining everyone's safety.
Despite these challenges, the team behind Hawaii Five-O remained unwavering in their
commitment to producing a high-quality show.
They were driven by a shared passion for storytelling and a desire to stay true to the show's Hawaiian
roots.
This dedication is evident in every episode of Hawaii Five-O, from the stunning cinematography
that showcases the beauty of Hawaii, to the compelling plotlines and memorable characters
that have captivated viewers for decades.
In the end, creating Hawaii Five-O was an enormous undertaking that tested the mettle
of a talented crew.
The success of the series is a tribute to the teamwork and unity of purpose that went
into its creation.
The end result is a spectacle that captures the essence of Hawaii while entertaining its
audience.
The story of the banned episode
One of the most intriguing tales of Hawaii Five-O is the story of the unseen episode.
The second season of "Hawaii Five-O" featured an episode titled "Bored She Hung Herself,"
which sparked controversy due to its disturbing content.
This episode, which aired only once on January 7, 1970, was subsequently banned and has never
been included in any reruns, DVD sets, or syndication packages.
The reason for this ban lies in a tragic real-life incident that occurred following the episode's
airing, leading to a viewer's death and a subsequent lawsuit against the network.
"Bored, She Hung Herself" was a departure from the typical Hawaii Five-O episode.
The plot revolved around a character named Don Miles, a quintessential late-'60s hippie
portrayed by Don Quine.
Miles was depicted practicing a form of "yoga" that involved auto-asphyxiation, or self-strangulation,
with the intent of achieving a state of euphoria.
This unusual and dangerous practice was central to the episode's storyline, which involved
the death of Miles' girlfriend, who was found hanging from a noose in their Hawaiian apartment.
The controversy surrounding this episode arose when a viewer in America attempted to replicate
the hanging technique performed by Don Miles in the episode.
Tragically, the viewer died as a result, leading to a lawsuit against the network by the viewer's
parents.
This incident was confirmed by Rose Freeman, the wife of series creator Leonard Freeman,
at a convention.
Joel Berliner, the actor who played the murderer/neighbor's young son in the episode, also corroborated
this history.
The tragic incident led to the decision by CBS to permanently remove "Bored, She Hung
Herself" from circulation.
Although millions of viewers had initially watched the episode, and Hawaii Five-O was
reaching a peak in viewership during its second season, the network felt it had no other option
but to erase the episode from existence.
The decision was likely influenced by the heightened attention and tension on the network
at the time, with Hawaii Five-O being singled out in Congressional hearings on television
violence.
In the years since the incident, "Bored, She Hung Herself" has become something of a legend
among fans of Hawaii Five-O. Its absence from DVD sets and reruns has only fueled curiosity
and speculation about the episode.
However, the tragic circumstances surrounding its banning serve as a sobering reminder of
the episode's dark history.
Legacy of Hawaii Five-O
The success of Hawaii Five-O over the years is proof of the show's classic narrative.
The show's effect has spread well beyond the boundaries of the Hawaiian islands, where
it was set, even decades after it completed its original run.
Hawaii Five-O's impact can be seen in its worldwide syndication, introducing new generations
of viewers to the thrilling adventures of the Five-O team.
The show's unique blend of action, drama, and Hawaiian culture has resonated with audiences
across different cultures and age groups.
Because of its widespread popularity, Hawaii Five-O will always be remembered as a landmark
in the history of television.
In 2010, the legacy of Hawaii Five-O was given a new lease of life with the launch of a reboot
of the series.
This modern interpretation of the show brought the adventures of the Five-O team to a new
generation of viewers, while also paying homage to the original series.
The reboot served to further cement Hawaii Five-O's place in television history, proving
that the show's appeal was not confined to its original era.
But the legacy of Hawaii Five-O is not just about its longevity or its global appeal.
The show's influence on the television industry and popular culture is a fascinating aspect
to consider.
Hawaii Five-O blazed a trail with its innovative choice to shoot exclusively on location in
Hawaii, and its intricate storylines that delved into thought-provoking social issues
set it apart as a true pioneer.
The show's influence can be seen in the many police procedurals that followed, many of
which have sought to replicate its successful formula.
From its inception to its lasting impact, the story of Hawaii Five-O is filled with
fascinating secrets.
Whether it's the tale of the unseen episode, the challenges of filming in Hawaii, or the
evolution of its characters and plotlines, each aspect of the show offers a glimpse into
the world of television production.
As we continue to enjoy the adventures of Steve McGarrett and his team, we can also
appreciate the hard work and dedication that went into creating this iconic show.
There you have it.
It's now time to hear from you.
Let us know the Hawaii Five-O episodes that left you on the edge of your seat!