David Hekili Kenui Bell died suddenly in Hawaii on June 15, just two weeks after he made his big-screen debut in the Disney blockbuster ‘Lilo & Stitch’.
The actor’s sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, announced the sad news in a Facebook post on June 15. “My loving, generous, talented, handsome brother, David H. K. Bell, went to be with the Lord today. He was and will be a shining star,” Jalene wrote.
The cause of David Hekili Kenui Bell’s death has not been released.
David Hekili Kenui Bell was very proud to appear in the live-action Lilo & Stitch released last month, his sister said. “He bought the best seats so we could all go together to the premiere night in Kapolei just two weeks ago,” she said.
The actor’s representative, Lashauna Downie, told TMZ that she only learned of Bell’s passing through social media. Lashauna called Bell a “gentle giant” and expressed her heartbreak over his sudden death.
Two weeks ago, Bell shared several behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram from his time on the set of Lilo & Stitch. The Hawaiian actor made an impression with his role as Big Hawaiian Dude, a man who hilariously drops his ice cream when he sees an alien portal. Lilo & Stitch, produced by Walt Disney, is a live-action adaptation of the 2002 animated hit of the same name. Since its release on May 23, the film has grossed $858 million worldwide against a production budget of $100 million.
Previously, David Hekili Kenui Bell appeared on several TV series, including Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0. According to IMDb, he also stars in The Wrecking Crew, an upcoming Amazon MGM Studios action comedy starring Dave Bautista and Jason Momoa.
In addition to acting, Bell enjoyed voiceover and radio work. Before his death, he worked as an assistant airport manager at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport in Keahole, Hawaii.
