Saison
Épisode
Serveur du lecteur
Magnum, P.I.

Magnum, P.I.

19807
DrameCrimeMystèreAction & Adventure
Sortie
11 déc. 1980
Pays
États-Unis
Productions
Belisarius ProductionsGlen A. Larson ProductionsUniversal Television EntertainmentUniversal Television
Un détective privé qui travaille quand il le souhaite, vit dans une résidence en bord de mer à Hawaii, conduit une Ferrari de luxe, ouvre une facture illimitée dans un bar chic, et charme les femmes attirantes en danger – tel est le style de vie de Thomas Magnum, alias Magnum, P.I.

About

Quick guide

A private detective living off‑hand in Hawaii balances luxury and danger with humor.

Thomas Magnum is a former U.S. Navy SEAL turned private investigator who runs his business on the guesthouse of Robin Masters' 200‑acre estate in Oahu. With a signature moustache, a Ferrari, and a laid‑back attitude, he takes on a variety of cases—from missing persons to double‑crossed criminals—while juggling a quirky crew of locals and a stern caretaker, Jonathan Higgins. The show blends action, humor, and island scenery, and follows Magnum’s relationships with friends, rivals, and the community, all narrated in a relaxed, first‑person voice. It also explores themes of loyalty, Vietnam memory, and the clash between old‑school detective work and modern crime.

What to know

  • 8 seasons, 162 episodes.
  • Filmed on Oahu, Hawaii; uses real locations.
  • Magnum is a former U.S. Navy SEAL.
  • Robin's Nest: 200-acre beachfront estate; Magnum lives in guesthouse.
  • Primary crew: Jonathan Higgins (caretaker), Theodore "T.C." Calvin (helicopter), Orville "Rick" Wright (bar owner).
  • Signature Ferrari 308 GTS; also uses various vehicles.
  • Episodes feature crossovers with "Hawaii Five‑O" and "Murder, She Wrote".
  • Narration is in a casual first‑person voice.

Watch if

If you enjoy witty detective drama that mixes action, humor, and island scenery, and you’re curious about a 1980s show that balances crime‑solving with laid‑back lifestyle, Magnum, P.I. will keep you entertained.

Skip if

Skip if you prefer hard‑boiled, high‑stakes crime dramas, or if you’re a fan of the 2018 reboot and want a fresh take rather than classic 1980s style.

crime violencedark tonedialogue heavyfast pacedinvestigation heavylanguage somemature themespolitical themespsychological elementssuspenseful
Setting and Atmosphere
Set against the lush backdrop of Oahu, the series centers on Robin's Nest, a 200‑acre beachfront estate that provides a glamorous stage for Magnum's cases. The guesthouse, where Magnum resides, juxtaposes opulence with the everyday challenges of island life, creating a unique blend of action and laid‑back island culture that defines the show’s tone.
Main Characters
Thomas Magnum is a former U.S. Navy SEAL turned private investigator who brings a relaxed, witty demeanor to crime‑solving. His partners include the stern caretaker Jonathan Higgins, the veteran helicopter pilot T.C. Calvin, and the smooth‑talking bar owner Orville "Rick" Wright. Together they navigate a mix of local intrigue and larger conspiracies, each adding distinct flavor to the team dynamic.
Plot Structure
Episodes follow Magnum as he tackles a new case each week, from missing persons to double‑crossed criminals. The narrative is delivered in a casual first‑person voice, often peppered with humor and cultural references. While each story resolves within the episode, underlying themes of loyalty, memory, and the aftermath of war thread through the season arcs.
Production Notes
Filmed on Oahu, the series showcases real Hawaiian landmarks, from the beach to local eateries. Iconic vehicles include Magnum's Ferrari 308 GTS, the helicopter piloted by T.C., and the vintage car collection of Robin's Nest. The soundtrack, featuring Mike Post’s theme, captures the era’s vibe, while the show’s production design balances polished aesthetics with a laid‑back island feel.
Cultural Impact
The show spawned a devoted fan base and influenced later police dramas with its blend of humor and action. Crossovers with Hawaii Five‑O and Murder, She Wrote cemented its place in the TV mystery canon. Magnum's legacy endures in pop culture references and the 2018 reboot, which reinterprets the original premise for a new generation.
Series Finale and Legacy
Magnum was slated to be killed off in season seven, but fan backlash led to an eighth season that wrapped up the series with a satisfying conclusion. The show’s ending leaves Magnum’s future ambiguous yet hopeful, reflecting the open‑ended nature of island life. Its legacy continues in the 2018 reboot and the enduring appeal of the original’s humor.

FAQ

48 Q&A
What is Robin's Nest?
Robin's Nest is a large, beautiful estate on the island of Oahu where Magnum lives and works. It belongs to a famous author named Robin Masters.
What is the time period of the show?
The original show aired in the 1980s. The new show started in 2018 and is set in the present day.
Who are Magnum's friends?
Magnum's main friends are Theodore 'TC' Calvin, Orville 'Rick' Wright, and Juliet Higgins, who also lives at Robin's Nest.
What kind of car does Magnum drive?
Magnum famously drives a red Ferrari. In the newer show, he drives a similar sports car.
Does Magnum carry a gun?
Yes, Magnum often carries a handgun as part of his work as a private investigator.
What is Higgins' role in the show?
Higgins is the majordomo, or head caretaker, of Robin's Nest. She often works with Magnum on his cases and sometimes clashes with him.
What is TC's job?
TC runs a helicopter charter service called Island Hoppers. He often provides transportation for Magnum's investigations.
Does Magnum have a gun permit?
In the original series, Magnum often had special permissions, but the specifics of permits were sometimes flexible for the story.
Who does Magnum have a crush on?
In the original show, Magnum had a crush on a woman named Michelle, who was married to a Vietnamese general. In the newer show, there is a romantic connection with Juliet Higgins.
Is the show funny?
Yes, the show has a lot of humor, often coming from Magnum's antics and his interactions with Higgins and his friends.
Are there sad parts in the show?
Yes, while mostly lighthearted, the show sometimes deals with serious themes and has sad moments, especially related to the Vietnam War.
Is Hawaii a good place for the show?
Yes, Hawaii is a beautiful setting that adds to the show's appeal with its beaches, scenery, and relaxed atmosphere.
Who are the bad guys in Magnum P.I.?
The bad guys are usually criminals, drug dealers, murderers, and sometimes people involved in organized crime or international intrigue.
Do Magnum and his friends get along?
Yes, Magnum and his friends are very close, although they do tease each other and sometimes disagree.
What is Rick's job?
Rick manages a popular nightclub and bar called La Mariana. He often gets information for Magnum from his contacts there.
Does Magnum have a car?
Yes, Magnum famously drives a red Ferrari. He also sometimes uses other vehicles for his work.
Does Magnum ever get married?
In the original series, Magnum was divorced. In the reboot, he has a complicated romantic history but is not married.
What kind of cases does Magnum solve?
Magnum solves a variety of private investigator cases, including missing persons, theft, murder, and sometimes espionage.
Are there recurring villains?
Yes, there are sometimes recurring antagonists or characters who cause trouble for Magnum throughout the series.
What is the setting of Magnum P.I.?
The show is set on the beautiful island of Oahu in Hawaii.
What is the show Magnum P.I. about?
The show is about a charming private investigator, Thomas Magnum, who lives on a luxurious estate in Hawaii and solves crimes with the help of his friends.
Are the cases dangerous?
Yes, the cases Magnum takes on are often dangerous, involving criminals and risky situations.
Is Higgins always nice to Magnum?
No, Higgins and Magnum often have a playful, sometimes antagonistic relationship, though they deeply care for each other.
Does Magnum have a love interest?
Yes, Magnum has had several love interests throughout the series, including a significant connection with Juliet Higgins in the newer show.
Who plays the main character, Magnum?
In the original series, Tom Selleck played Thomas Magnum. In the reboot, Jay Hernandez plays Magnum.
Who is in the new Magnum P.I. cast?
The main actors in the new Magnum P.I. are Jay Hernandez as Magnum, Perdita Weeks as Higgins, Zachary Knighton as Rick, and Stephen Hill as T.C.
How many seasons of Magnum P.I. are there?
The new Magnum P.I. has 5 seasons.
What are the main differences between the old and new shows?
The new show has a female Higgins and updated technology. Magnum is also a former Navy SEAL.
What inspired the show?
The original show was inspired by the success of other detective shows and the popularity of Hawaii as a setting.
What happens at the end of the series?
The final episode shows Magnum and Juliet Higgins deciding to stay together as a couple.
Are there any spin-offs of Magnum P.I.?
There are no spin-offs of the new Magnum P.I. series.
Are any of the old characters in the new show?
No, the original characters do not appear in the new show.
Is the theme song famous?
Yes, the original theme song is very famous and recognized by many people.
Were there any real detectives who helped with the show?
The creators of the original show consulted with real police officers and detectives for authenticity.
What happened to the actors after the show?
The actors have gone on to star in other TV shows and movies. For example, Tom Selleck, who played Magnum in the original, starred in Blue Bloods.
Does the new show take place in the same Hawaii?
Yes, the new show is also set in Hawaii.
How did they film the action scenes?
The show uses a mix of real stunts, practical effects, and sometimes CGI to film action scenes.
Was the show popular when it first aired?
The original Magnum P.I. was very popular when it first aired in the 1980s.
What are some famous lines from the show?
Famous lines include 'I'm Magnum, P.I.' and 'Private Investigations.'
Is there a new Magnum P.I. show?
Yes, there is a new Magnum P.I. show that started in 2018.
Is the new show connected to the old one?
The new show is a reboot, meaning it tells a new story with similar themes but is not a direct continuation of the old show.
Who created Magnum P.I.?
The original Magnum P.I. was created by Donald P. Bellisario and Glen A. Larson.
Did the show have a big budget?
The original show was known for its significant budget, partly due to filming on location in Hawaii.
What was it like filming in Hawaii?
Filming in Hawaii offered beautiful scenery but also presented challenges like weather and logistics.
What music is used in the show?
The show features a mix of contemporary music and original scores, including a modern take on the original theme song.
When did Magnum P.I. first come out?
The original Magnum P.I. first aired in 1980.
Did the show have a planned ending?
The original series did not have a planned ending, and the final episode was written without knowing it would be the last.
Did the actors do their own stunts?
While some actors may have performed simpler stunts, major and dangerous stunts were typically handled by professional stunt performers.

Acteurs

Tom Selleck
Tom Selleck
Thomas Magnum
John Hillerman
John Hillerman
Jonathan Higgins
Roger E. Mosley
Roger E. Mosley
Terry 'TC' Calvin
Larry Manetti
Larry Manetti
Rick Wright