Alex O’Loughlin, the Australian actor best known for his role as Lieutenant Commander Steve McGarrett on the hit CBS series Hawaii Five-0, captivated audiences for over a decade with his commanding presence and nuanced performances. Since the series concluded in 2020, fans have been curious: what is Alex O’Loughlin doing now? This article explores his post-Hawaii Five-0 life, career updates, personal projects, and ongoing influence in the entertainment industry.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Born on August 24, 1976, in Canberra, Australia, Alex O’Loughlin trained at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Sydney, one of Australia’s most prestigious acting schools. He began his career with roles in Australian television and film, including Oyster Farmer and The Incredible Journey of Mary Bryant, where he earned critical praise for his performances.
His first major break in the U.S. came with the CBS vampire drama Moonlight (2007–2008), where he played private investigator and vampire Mick St. John. Though the show was short-lived, it helped establish him in the American entertainment market. He went on to star in the medical drama Three Rivers before landing his most iconic role.
Success with Hawaii Five-0
In 2010, O’Loughlin took on the lead role of Steve McGarrett in the reboot of Hawaii Five-0. The show quickly became a fan favorite, running for 10 successful seasons. As McGarrett, O’Loughlin brought charisma, strength, and emotional depth to the role of a Navy SEAL-turned-police commander tasked with leading a special task force in Hawaii.
The series solidified his status as a leading man in television and earned him a global fan base. During his tenure on the show, O’Loughlin also stepped behind the camera, directing several episodes and contributing to the show’s creative direction.
What Alex O’Loughlin is Doing Now
Since Hawaii Five-0 concluded in April 2020, Alex O’Loughlin has taken a step back from acting to focus on personal interests and spend time with his family. He has remained largely out of the public eye, sparking speculation about his next move but confirming his desire to recharge after a decade-long commitment to the series.
While no major acting projects have been officially announced as of now, industry insiders suggest that O’Loughlin has been reviewing scripts and may return for the right role—particularly in film or limited series formats that offer more flexibility.
He is also rumored to be developing original content, including writing and producing, aiming to transition into more creative control behind the scenes. These efforts reflect his evolving interests in storytelling and long-term impact within the industry.
Personal Life and Wellness
Alex O’Loughlin is known for maintaining a private and grounded personal life. He is married to Malia Jones, an American model and surfer, and the couple has one son together. He is also a stepfather to Jones’s child from a previous relationship and has a son from an earlier relationship.
O’Loughlin has been open in past interviews about dealing with physical injuries sustained during filming, particularly in the later seasons of Hawaii Five-0. Since stepping away from television, he has focused on recovery, wellness, and martial arts, including Brazilian jiu-jitsu, in which he holds a black belt.
His dedication to health and mental balance reflects a thoughtful shift toward sustainability and self-care after years in a physically demanding role.
Connection with Fans and Legacy
Even during his break from acting, Alex O’Loughlin continues to have a strong fan base. Online forums, fan pages, and social media platforms remain active with admiration for his work and anticipation for his return to the screen.
O’Loughlin has not joined any major social media platforms, preferring to maintain privacy, but his rare public appearances and interviews continue to draw significant attention.
He is especially admired for his respectful approach to fame, his professionalism on set, and the depth he brings to complex characters. These qualities have contributed to a lasting legacy in modern television.
Future Possibilities
Although O’Loughlin is currently enjoying time away from the spotlight, his name continues to circulate in casting discussions for action, drama, and thriller roles. Given his talent, reputation, and fan loyalty, a return to film or a high-caliber streaming series would be a welcome development.
As more actors transition into producing and directing, O’Loughlin’s potential projects could span genres and formats, allowing him to express his creative vision beyond acting.
FAQs About Alex O’Loughlin
Is Alex O’Loughlin still acting?
As of now, he is on a hiatus from acting but has expressed interest in returning for the right project.
What is Alex O’Loughlin doing now?
He is focusing on family, wellness, and exploring opportunities behind the scenes in writing and producing.
Did Alex O’Loughlin retire from acting?
No, he has not officially retired. He has taken time off since Hawaii Five-0 ended in 2020.
Is Alex O’Loughlin on social media?
No, he does not maintain official social media accounts and values his privacy.
What is Alex O’Loughlin’s most famous role?
His most well-known role is Lieutenant Commander Steve McGarrett on Hawaii Five-0 (2010–2020).
Does Alex O’Loughlin have any upcoming projects?
There are no confirmed projects at the moment, but he is reportedly reviewing potential film and television opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Alex O’Loughlin’s contribution to television through his work on Hawaii Five-0 has left an enduring mark on audiences worldwide. As he takes time to rest, reflect, and realign his career goals, fans remain hopeful for his return—whether on screen or behind the camera.
Known for his talent, dedication, and grounded personality, O’Loughlin continues to inspire admiration. Whatever path he chooses next, his legacy as a versatile and impactful actor is already firmly established.