Daniel Dae Kim’s Departure from Hawaii Five-0

For seven thrilling seasons, Daniel Dae Kim graced our screens as Chin Ho Kelly in the 2010s reboot of Hawaii Five-0. Yet, a troubling disparity lurked behind the scenes—Dae Kim received significantly less pay than his white co-stars.

When CBS ignored his request for fair compensation, the actor stood boldly, bidding farewell to the series at the end of its seventh season. It was a poignant moment that shed light on the ongoing fight for equality in Hollywood, reminding us that sometimes principles are worth more than any paycheck.