Photos courtesy of Rita Coury Photography Inc.
The Al and Rosa Harrington Legacy Fund was established to honor the legacy of Al Harrington as a respected community leader and beloved ambassador of aloha within the film and television industry. The legacy fund celebrates emerging artists from throughout Polynesia as they perpetuate diversified cultural representation in entertainment.
Known as “the Renaissance Man,” Al used his intellect and athleticism to excel in sports and academics at Punahou and Stanford University. His hard work and talents opened more doors. He was one of the first actors to represent the Polynesian culture as a main character in the original CBS series Hawai‘i Five-O – one of the firsts that paved the way for others. He later created the wildly popular “The Al Harrington Show,” a cocktail and dinner show that he presented in Waikīkī for 23 years. The show helped launch the careers of many talented Pacific Islanders. Al’s life illustrates the motto that he and his wife Rosa Harrington lived by “All you need is one shot and you take it no matter what.”
Born in Pago Pago, American Samoa, in 1935, the endearing actor called Hawai‘i home for more than 80 years. Throughout his life and in all its facets, he promoted Polynesian culture and represented the true aloha spirit whether he was entertaining, in political arenas, or as an educator. He hoped his life would inspire others knowing that he succeeded, and they could too. Recognizing his heart, warmth, and accomplishments, the Hawai‘i Department of Tourism gave Al Harrington the official title “Mr. Aloha.” At that time he noted that “Hawai‘i is an intricate part of who I am.” When he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Hawaiian Academy of Recording Arts (HARA). Al again credited his island home, “The greatest gift God has given to me is to be a part of Hawai‘i.”
Al believed in the importance of diligent training, preparation, and readiness, and above all stewarding cultural values with every opportunity. The Al and Rosa Harrington Legacy Fund is dedicated to providing support and progressive opportunities for generations to come with an unwavering commitment to aloha.
For questions or additional information, please contact Donor Services at (808) 566-5560 or donorservices@hcf-hawaii.org.