Gilbert Lani Kauhi


Gilbert Francis Lani Damian Kauhi, also known by the stage names Zulu 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.

Career

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". 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. Kauhi was an accomplished surfer; he was known in Hawaii by the honorific "Waikiki Beach Boy."
In 1968, Zulu landed the role of the burly state police detective Kono on Hawaii Five-O. He left after four seasons, frustrated by the "dumb Hawaiian" image that his character projected, as well as off-camera conflicts with the show's star, Jack Lord. "... wouldn't let him do anything," said a co-worker.
"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." Zulu would go on to eight more television roles including a reprise role of Kono in the 1997 pilot for the revival series, Hawaii Five-0. He later hosted a Honolulu show called Big Z Movie Time.
Zulu worked on American Hawaii Cruise ships for a while as part of the Cruise Staff.
After ending his business relationship with his manager, Kauhi discovered that she had registered the name "Zulu" and he could not perform as Zulu without her permission. For the rest of his career he performed as Zoulou.

Death

Kauhi died in Hilo at the age of 66 from complications due to diabetes. Per his wishes, his ashes were scattered off Waikiki.

Filmography

Uncredited