Meaning: This quote, attributed to James MacArthur, the actor who played Danny "Danno" Williams on the popular television show "Hawaii Five-O," reflects his feelings about the initial success of the series. The quote encapsulates the sense of surprise and delight that often accompanies the unexpected triumph of a creative project. Furthermore, it sheds light on the collaborative spirit between MacArthur and his co-star, Jack Lord, as they recognized the potential of the series from its inception.

"Hawaii Five-O" premiered on September 20, 1968, and quickly gained popularity, becoming one of the longest-running crime dramas in television history. The show followed the investigations of a special state police task force headed by the iconic character Steve McGarrett, played by Jack Lord. James MacArthur's portrayal of the affable and resourceful Danny Williams endeared him to audiences, and his chemistry with Lord's character added depth to the series.

In the quote, MacArthur's use of the term "premier episode" refers to the pilot episode of "Hawaii Five-O," which served as the introduction to the series. This episode, titled "Cocoon," set the stage for the show's signature blend of crime-solving, action, and the lush backdrop of Hawaii. MacArthur's mention of completing the premier episode suggests that the cast and crew had invested their efforts in creating a strong foundation for the series.

The reference to "Jack Lord and I immediately realized that we had a good series" highlights the camaraderie and mutual understanding between the two actors. Their shared conviction in the potential of the show speaks to the confidence they had in the storytelling, characters, and overall vision of "Hawaii Five-O." This unity of purpose likely contributed to the show's enduring success and the on-screen chemistry between their characters.

Moreover, MacArthur's statement that the success of "Hawaii Five-O" was "such as we'd never hoped for" underscores the element of pleasant surprise and gratitude. It suggests that while they believed in the show's quality, they may not have anticipated the extent of its impact. This sentiment reflects the joy and satisfaction that come from surpassing one's own expectations and finding unexpected triumph in a creative endeavor.

The quote not only captures a moment of realization and pride for MacArthur and Lord but also provides insight into the early days of "Hawaii Five-O" and the atmosphere surrounding its inception. It offers a glimpse into the excitement and optimism that accompanied the birth of a series that would go on to captivate audiences for twelve seasons.

In conclusion, James MacArthur's quote encapsulates the sense of delight and astonishment that often accompanies the success of a creative project. His words reflect the collaborative spirit between the actors and the shared belief in the potential of "Hawaii Five-O." The quote serves as a testament to the show's enduring impact and the joy of surpassing one's own expectations. It provides a valuable glimpse into the early days of the beloved series and the camaraderie between its stars, shedding light on the sense of pride and appreciation that marked the beginning of a television phenomenon.