Life on the set of Hawaii Five-0 with Yen Phan

Aloha Yen, and thanks for taking the time to talk to the fans.  Who did you play?
I played Malia’s bridesmaid and unofficial maid of honor!

Yen gets ready in the makeup trailer for her episode Hawaii Five-0. Photo: Yen Phan

How did you feel when you were told you’d be the maid of honor?
I got a call from casting and was so psyched! I called my mom, aunties, friends, 3rd cousins removed, everybody, it was as if I was actually getting married. I missed an acting opportunity 2 months ago so I wasn’t gonna let this one pass by. When casting said “bridesmaid”, I immediately thought it would be Chin and Malia, but also seemed like Lori had an eye for Steve, and I always thought Kono and Charlie Fong would make a cute couple, so I wasn’t 100% sure who’s getting hitched.

Yen and the flower girl. Photo: Yen Phan

Does the bridesmaid have a name?
The bridesmaid didn’t have an official name, but the other two beautiful ladies’ real names were Lisa Basham and Salina Storozuk. I was curious if Kono was gonna be a bridesmaid as well, and it would be an honor and so awesome to stand next to her at the altar. As we were rehearsing, I ended up standing right next to the bride as her maid of honor! I was handed her bouquet and was holding the maile lei which she placed on the groom’s neck. I was still in shock but kept my cool and smiled throughout the whole filming. Inside I was jumping with joy to be a part of the scene!  We got to wear beautiful coral dress with fresh flower leis, a sunrise seashell necklace, and hand-made bracelets. I felt like it was my special day too.

Yen and Malia's bridesmaids for the big wedding. Photo: Yen Phan

Anyone got really drunk at the reception?
Steve gave a heart-warming best-man speech, all the girls swooned and Kamekona cried again. Chin and Malia’s first dance song was “Always” by Atlantic Starr. Steve asked me to dance after the bride & groom’s first dance, and I was delighted. We boogied to “Cha Cha Slide”, “Electric Slide”, and “Is This Love” by Haddaway. Danno got drunk by the end of dinner. He kept mumbling something about woman taking your daughter, house, strings you along and that marriage is doomed.  Just kidding!   There was no reception scene!

Hah!  You got me there…thanks for your time Yen!

Yen (far right) cheers on the big kiss with Malia and Chin. Photo: CBS