The short answer is yes, there is a real Hawaii Five-0 currently in the form of the 2010 CBS rebooted series, which concluded its tenth season in 2020. The original 1968–1980 show is the real precursor, but today the only physically produced, widely distributed Hawaii Five-0 is the modern reboot. This status clarification explains what is currently available, what has ended, and why the reboot remains the active version of the franchise. Keep reading to separate ongoing series from concluded entries and understand the present state of the Five-0 universe.
What people mean when they ask this
When asking is there a real Hawaii Five-0, people are usually trying to determine whether a currently airing, officially produced series exists. The question often arises because the long-running original series ended decades ago, yet people hear about new seasons or streaming availability. The short answer is yes, there is a real Hawaii Five-0 currently in the form of the 2010 CBS rebooted series, which concluded its tenth season in 2020. The original 1968–1980 show is the real precursor, but today the only physically produced, widely distributed Hawaii Five-0 is the modern reboot. This status clarification explains what is currently available, what has ended, and why the reboot remains the active version of the franchise.
Defining the two real Hawaii Five-O series
The original 1968–1980 series
The original Hawaii Five-O is the real, groundbreaking crime drama starring Jack Lord as Steve McGarrett. It aired on CBS from 1968 to 1980, spanning 12 seasons and 281 episodes. It was filmed in Hawaii, introduced memorable characters like Danny 'Danno' Williams, and became a cultural touchstone. This series is historically the real Hawaii Five-O, representing the franchise's authentic foundation and influence on police procedurals.
The 2010 reboot and its run
Launched in September 2010 on CBS, the reboot presents a contemporary take on the same task force concept. It ran for 10 seasons and 241 episodes, concluding in April 2020. The reboot starred Alex O'Loughlin, Scott Caan, Daniel Dae Kim, and Grace Park, and brought serialized storytelling, modern forensics, and Hawaii-centric settings into the format. The reboot is a real, completed series produced and distributed by CBS Studios, making it a tangible, currently available version of Hawaii Five-O.
Current availability and streaming options
As of today, both the original 1968–1980 series and the 2010–2020 reboot are available on major streaming platforms. The original can typically be found on Me-TV and other ad-supported channels or services that license classic content. The reboot commonly streams on services such as Netflix, Paramount+, and Pluto TV, depending on regional licensing. Because physical production has ended on the reboot, no new episodes are being produced, but the completed seasons remain accessible for viewers. Platforms rotate titles, so checking your local service is the best way to confirm current availability.
Timeline and production status at a glance
| Title | Years aired | Seasons | Episodes | Status | Production company |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii Five-O (original) | 1968–1980 | 12 | 281 | Concluded | CBS Productions |
| Hawaii Five-0 (reboot) | 2010–2020 | 10 | 241 | Concluded | CBS Studios |
How to tell which version you're watching
- Check the opening credits: the reboot features updated music and modern typography, while the original uses its classic theme and font.
- Production design and technology: the reboot includes current forensic tools, smartphones, and digital investigations, whereas the original reflects period-appropriate methods.
- Actor and cast lists: the original centers on Jack Lord's McGarrett; the reboot centers on O'Loughlin's McGarrett and the diverse modern team.
- Release window: episodes that aired after 2010 are part of the reboot; those between 1968 and 1980 belong to the original.
Future possibilities and common questions
There are no active, officially announced plans for new seasons of either series. While networks occasionally revisit classic IPs, no greenlit project or development slate currently points to a new Hawaii Five-O season. Viewer interest and legacy streams keep discussion alive, but production has not been restarted. Common follow-up questions include whether a movie or crossover event will happen; as of now, no feature film is in development, and recent crossover content has remained within the reboot's universe rather than involving the original cast.
Key takeaways to remember
- Yes, a real Hawaii Five-0 exists today as the completed 2010–2020 reboot series.
- The original 1968–1980 series is also real and remains culturally significant.
- Both series have concluded, but full seasons are widely available to stream.
- No new seasons or episodes are actively in production for either version.
- The reboot represents the current, actively accessible version for most viewers.