On Monday morning, February 10, 2025, Peter Navy Tuiasosopo, a seasoned actor best known for his roles in “Street Fighter” and various television series, passed away from heart-related issues in Phoenix, Arizona. He was 61.
The news of his passing was announced on social media by his son, Manoah Peter Tuiasosopo. He wrote, “My dad lived an amazing life, and in no way does his impact stop here … His strength, love, compassion, and kindness will forever be felt.”
Tuiasosopo, born on May 24, 1963, in San Pedro, California, was a successful multi-sport athlete in his younger years. He attended Phineas Banning High School in Wilmington, California, where he stood out as both an offensive and defensive lineman in football and competed as a shot putter in track and field.
His remarkable athletic talent earned him a football scholarship to Utah State University. After university, he pursued a professional football career, signing as an undrafted free agent with the St. Louis Cardinals following the 1987 NFL Draft, though he did not secure a spot on the team.
Later, Tuiasosopo joined the Los Angeles Rams during the players’ strike, starting three games as center. However, he did not make any official NFL game appearances once the strike was over. His brief professional football career would later influence his acting career, particularly in roles related to sports.
In 1991, Tuiasosopo made a significant career move into acting. His first role was in the sports comedy “Necessary Roughness,” where he played Manumana, “the Thin Man,” drawing from his football background. His big break came in 1994 when he landed the role of E. Honda in the film adaptation of “Street Fighter,” a role that became one of his most well-known.
Over his career spanning three decades, Tuiasosopo built an impressive television resume. He had roles in many well-known series, such as “NCIS,” “Ray Donovan,” “Black-ish,” and “New Girl.” His most recent work was in the 2021 reboot of “Magnum P.I.” His versatility shone through in his film work, which covered various genres and included roles in major films like “The Fast and the Furious,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “The Scorpion King,” “Batman & Robin,” “BASEketball,” and “Austin Powers in Goldmember.”
Beginning with “Danger Theater” in 1993, Tuiasosopo demonstrated his range as a character actor on television, making notable guest appearances on shows like “The Jamie Foxx Show,” “Jenny,” “Silk Stalkings,” and “Hawaii.” In the crime drama “Mob City,” he showed his ability to take on more serious dramatic roles.
Tuiasosopo’s legacy extends beyond his acting career. He hailed from a family with deep roots in professional football, with several family members, including his uncle, cousins, and second cousin, having had NFL careers. In Hollywood, he was recognized as a pioneer for Polynesian actors, contributing to increased representation in the entertainment industry.
The family intends to hold a Celebration of Life event, with details to be announced at a later date. They have requested continued support and prayers during this difficult time.