| Gilbert "Zulu" Kauhi | |
|---|---|
| Born | Gilbert Francis Lani Damian Kauhi October 17, 1937 Big Island of Hawaii, U.S. |
| Died | May 3, 2004 (aged 66) Hilo, Hawaii, U.S. |
| Other names | Zulu/Zoulou |
| Occupation | Actor, musician, comedian |
| Years active | 1968–1997 |
Gilbert Francis Lani Damian Kauhi (October 17, 1937 – May 3, 2004), also known by the stage names Zulu[1] and Zoulou, was an American actor and comedian. He is remembered largely for his portrayal of "Kono Kalakaua" on the long-running television program Hawaii Five-O.
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Kauhi was born in Hilo on the "Big Island" of Hawaii. He began his career in Honolulu as a stand-up comedian, mimic, and singer, described by one journalist as "part Godfrey Cambridge, part Zero Mostel.[2] His nightly live show was a popular attraction at C'est Si Bon Supper Club in the Waikiki section of Honolulu before, during, and well after his brief television career.
In 1968 he landed the role of the burly state police detective Kono on Hawaii Five-O. He left after four seasons, frustrated by the image his character projected as a "dumb Hawaiian." "Jack Lord, the show's star, wouldn't let him do anything," said a co-worker.[2]
"My friends think I'm a trained-animal act," he said, in a 1971 interview. " 'Yes, boss; no, boss.' Well, some day this animal will be laughing all the way to the bank."[2] He later hosted a Honolulu show called "Big Z Movie Time".
Kauhi was also an accomplished surfer; he was known in Hawaii by the honorific "Waikiki Beach Boy."
Kauhi died in Hilo at the age of 66 from complications due to diabetes. Per his wishes, his ashes were scattered off Waikiki.[3]