The 'Hawaii Five-O' pilot just got a bit more interesting. Tough guy actor Scott Caan has been cast as Danno, joining Alex O'Loughlin as Steve McGarrett. What makes it interesting is that in the original series, McGarrett was the older member of the squad, the leader based on experience if not seniority. Danny Williams was a younger guy, with McGarrett as sort of his mentor.

O'Loughlin and Caan are the same age. That would mean that they'll be more like partners. Like Sam and Callen on 'NCIS: Los Angeles,' which is reminiscent of 'Starsky and Hutch.'

Well, there's nothing wrong with that, but it's not exactly the original, is it? It's a new version of 'Hawaii Five-O' and, apparently, that's the point. Like the updated 'Star Trek' movie, which coincidentally, was written by the same guys, Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci, who are doing the pilot.

So while this show will focus on an elite branch of the Hawaii State Police with McGarrett and Danno, it's not the same old CBS franchise.
Caan's character, Danno Williams, is a former New Jersey cop who recently transferred to Hawaii to be closer to his daughter after a nasty divorce. He's coerced into teaming with McGarrett, who's a bit of a 'maverick' in this incarnation. McGarrett is still the boss, however. Just a maverick boss.

Currently, Scott Caan is committed to the new season of 'Entourage' as manager Scott Lavin, a character introduced last year, so his status in the 'Hawaii Five-O' pilot is consider a guest role. When/if the show is picked up, he'll be slotted in as co-star. If 'Hawaii Five-O' is not picked up, it'll be the biggest shock of the year. It's this pilot season's 'NCIS: Los Angeles.'

By the way, if you didn't watch 'Entourage,' you might remember Caan as one of the gang in the 'Ocean's Eleven' movies. Also, if you squint, Scott Caan has a lot of the charm and charisma of his father, James Caan. ... Sonny Corleone in Hawaii. That'll work.

Finally, a thought about this casting. 'Hawaii Five-O' will be a very attractive show for those who like good looking, buff guys. Caan's cocky personality and bodacious bod will complement the equally eye-candyesque Alex O'Loughlin.