Actor James MacArthur, best known for his role as detective Dan "Danno" Williams on the original Hawaii Five-O TV show, has died of natural causes. He was 72.

MacArthur died with his family by his side, his agent said.

The actor spent 11 years on the popular Hawaii Five-O from 1968 to 1979 playing the sidekick to top detective Steve McGarrett who, after catching a crook, would end episodes with the familiar phrase, "book 'em, Danno," to his younger comrade.

But MacArthur also enjoyed roles in a number of hit movies such as Disney classic Swiss Family Robinson and alongside Clint Eastwood in Hang 'em High.

It was on the Eastwood movie that producer Leonard Freeman saw MacArthur, then called him to play Danno.

MacArthur's appearance in the 1958 film The Young Stranger earned him an award from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts for being the year's most promising newcomer.

On stage, he made his Broadway debut opposite Jane Fonda in Invitation To A March, earning 1961's Theatre World Award for best new actor.

Born on December 8, 1937 in Los Angeles, MacArthur was the son of theatre legend Helen Hayes and playwright Charles MacArthur.

He grew up at the family home in New York.

Outside acting, MacArthur enjoyed travelling, playing golf, tennis, skiing, fishing and hiking. He was also a skilled flamenco guitarist.

He is survived by his wife of more than 25 years, Helen Beth, four children and seven grandchildren.

- *Reuters*

I heard recently that he was the last surviving actor from the original Hawaii Five-O. It would have been cool to have had him do a spot on the new show.