Just weeks after celebrating his big-screen debut, the entertainment world is mourning the loss of David Hekili Kenui Bell.
The 46-year-old actor, who recently appeared in Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch, passed away on June 12 in Hawaii.
His death has left fans, family, and co-stars heartbroken.
No Signs of Foul Play, But Questions Remain
Hawaiian authorities confirmed that while the investigation is still ongoing, there is currently no indication of foul play.
A coroner’s inquest and autopsy have been scheduled to determine Bell’s official cause of death.
Police told TMZ this is standard protocol, and further details will be shared once the reports are finalized.
Remembering the Man Behind the Smile
David’s representatives released a heartfelt statement, describing him as a light-filled, kind, and deeply loved member of their “BLISS ʻOhana” (family).
“David brought joy and warmth to every space he entered,” the rep shared.
“He will be missed more than words can say.”
The message closed with a touching farewell: “Rest in love, dear David.
Your legacy and aloha spirit will live on in our hearts. A hui hou — until we meet again.”
A Sister’s Painful Tribute
David’s sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, shared an emotional post on Facebook, describing him as the most loving, generous, and brilliant person she knew.
Her tribute revealed how they first met on her high school graduation day — a long-awaited surprise that turned into a lifelong bond.
“Though I didn’t grow up with a father,” she wrote, “David gave me all the unconditional love I could ever ask for.”
An Actor with Heart and Humor
David had an undeniable passion for acting, voice work, and connecting with people.
Whether working with Kona Brewing as a brand ambassador, lending his voice to airport announcements in Kona, or performing in local projects, he poured his heart into every role.
His sister fondly recalled how David brought the family together to watch the Lilo & Stitch premiere just two weeks before his passing.
He even bought the best seats in the house and was thrilled by fans showing up in full themed gear.
A Lasting Impact Beyond the Screen
Bell wasn’t just a performer—he was a community man.
Known for creating joyful customer experiences at the airport and making everyone laugh online, he touched lives in big and small ways.
Jalene remembered their final evening together chatting about life, sipping seltzers, and tracing family roots — a moment now frozen in time.
Love From His Costars and Fans
Tributes poured in from fellow cast members. Young Lilo & Stitch star Maia Kealoha and her mom remembered him as a kind “uncle” figure who treated Maia like family.
Sydney Elizabeth Agudong, who played Nani, called him “a beautiful, bright, and kind soul,” wishing they had more time together.
His Work Continues
Beyond his role as “Big Hawaiian Dude” in Lilo & Stitch, David also had guest roles on Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-O.
According to IMDb, he will appear posthumously in The Wrecking Crew, which is currently in post-production.
Signing Off with Aloha
David’s last Instagram post on May 30 celebrated Kona Brewing’s win at the 2025 Pele Awards.
Always proud of his roots and work, he captioned it joyfully: “2025 Pele Awards Overall Winner! #KonaBrewingHawaii.”
In another recent post, he shared his humorous audition for Lilo & Stitch, joking about fake snow cones and “random stuff” that helped him land the role.
It’s that humor, heart, and aloha that fans and family will hold onto.