Why the Tide Turned

I've been feeding my latest obsession episodes of Moonlight (purchased over a year ago for a good price but never opened) and Hawaii 5-0. While I loved Moonlight when it was on, I didn't love Alex O. He was okay, but didn't hold the appeal he does in 5-0. Natalie said the same thing the other day, and Trish and I discussed it. My favorite question in the world is "Why?" so I've been thinking about it.

Mick St. John from Moonlight is a lost soul. He's a vampire but he accepts the life, doesn't embrace it. When he believes a cure is possible, he becomes almost manic in his quest. He's tormented by his past. Also, he gets his butt kicked pretty regularly. My dh said, "He's like the worst vampire ever." YET he's the perfect romantic lead for Beth. The reason I bought the DVD was the romance. I think the writers did a terrific job with sexual tension and building trust and, well, sigh.

Steve McGarrett is Alpha all the way. He's a chief, a take-charge guy from the first episode when he takes his father's murder case from Haole Danny Williams. He is focused on a goal and pursues it at any cost, not always caring about collateral damage. Okay, as I write that, I'm thinking, "Um, not good. Where's the appeal there?" Maybe it's that there's no wishy-washiness, no, "Should I want this?" No navel gazing. Decisiveness is sexy.

Also, the tattoos and rock-hard abs don't hurt.

So what do you think? Has he held the appeal for you since Moonlight, or did the tide change with Hawaii 5-0?