Simultaneously, the core team undergoes profound transitions:
The most significant addition this season is (played by Chi McBride), the former Chicago PD SWAT commander whose initial friction with Steve McGarrett (Alex O'Loughlin) eventually evolves into mutual respect and full team membership. This dynamic provides a fresh perspective on the team's "immunity and means" status, as seen on Fandom . Hawaii Five-0 - Season 4
Critics and fans alike viewed Season 4 as a period of maturation. While some noted that the show occasionally "jumped the shark" with outlandish scenarios—such as the rescue mission in Afghanistan—the central "cargument" banter between McGarrett and Danno remained the series' emotional anchor. According to reviewers from TV Fanatic , the season successfully balanced serialized drama with procedural "case of the week" episodes, culminating in a high-stakes finale involving the kidnapping of Grover's daughter. While some noted that the show occasionally "jumped
The season also ventures into historical and social commentary. The episode "Ho'onani Makuakane" was particularly praised by reviewers on Rotten Tomatoes for its sensitive portrayal of a WWII internment camp on Oahu, proving the show could handle somber historical justice alongside its usual popcorn-flick energy. Critical Reception The episode "Ho'onani Makuakane" was particularly praised by