Before Aquaman and Lobo, Jason Momoa Starred in This Forgotten Soap Opera—And It Was Wild

While Jason Momoa is best known for his iconic roles as Aquaman in the DC Extended Universe and soon-to-be Lobo in the Superman: Legacy film, his career began with a different kind of drama—one far removed from the superhero universe. Long before he was the protector of the deep or an intergalactic bounty hunter, Momoa made his way into the world of soap operas, carving out his niche as a smooth-talking bartender in a little-known FOX series North Shore.

In 2001, after his stint in Baywatch: Hawaii, Momoa transitioned into the primetime soap North Shore. Set against the lush backdrop of Oahu, Hawaii, the show followed the lives of the staff and guests of the fictional Grand Waimea Hotel and Resort. The premise offered a different flavor than its predecessor, Baywatch, shifting the focus from lifeguards to resort staff in the glamorous, drama-filled world of high-end hospitality.

Despite boasting a great setting and a cast that included names like James Remar, Kristoffer Polaha, and Brooke Burns, North Shore lasted only one season, airing just 21 episodes before it was axed by FOX. Critics’ opinions were mixed, with some fondly recalling the show as a guilty pleasure, while others gave it low ratings on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes. The show didn’t soar to critical acclaim, but it became one of those ‘forgotten gems’ with enough campy fun to warrant a nostalgic look.

Jason Momoa’s character, Frankie Seau, was one of the standout features of North Shore. Operating the outdoor bar at the resort, Seau was the quintessential smooth talker, always ready to listen to the problems of his coworkers and guests while maintaining a cool, carefree attitude. He added a touch of charm to the often-chaotic setting, effortlessly flirting with the ladies and offering advice when things got dicey—whether that involved helping a lifeguard get out of trouble with gang members or making things right with his friends. Even in this early stage of his career, Momoa displayed the charisma that would later elevate him to major star status.

The show’s appeal also lay in its colorful array of characters. From the ambitious surfer Gabriel McKay (Corey Sevier) to the con artist-turned-hotel concierge Tessa Lewis (Amanda Righetti), the drama was plentiful, but it was Momoa’s Frankie who captured the most attention. While the central plotlines were typical soap fare—love triangles, corporate rivalries, and complicated friendships—the Hawaiian setting lent the series an exotic, escapist quality, with turquoise waters and stunning scenery providing a beautiful contrast to the sizzling interpersonal drama.

As for the romance angle, Frankie’s “will-they-or-won’t-they” relationship with Nicole Booth (Brooke Burns) kept viewers hooked, providing emotional depth to the show. The slow burn of their chemistry, paired with the picturesque island backdrop, made it easy to get swept away in the drama, even if it wasn’t always the most critically acclaimed show on TV.

While North Shore never became the next big hit, it marked an important chapter in Jason Momoa’s career. It was here that the actor showcased his early ability to command the screen with his effortlessly cool presence, setting the stage for his future superhero roles. Had he been any closer to the water in that show, he could have easily been cast as Aquaman years before he was ever given the opportunity in Justice League. Instead, he left his mark on North Shore, one of the many stepping stones in his journey from small-screen soap star to global movie icon.

For those seeking a glimpse into Momoa’s pre-Aquaman days, North Shore remains a quirky, albeit short-lived, piece of his television history—a reminder that even the biggest stars have humble beginnings, and sometimes, the journey to fame comes with a little drama on the side.