David Hekili Kenui Bell, an actor who appeared in Disney’s live-action “Lilo & Stitch” remake, died June 12 at age 46. The Hawaii Police Department confirmed his death occurred at approximately 2:26 p.m. local time, with no foul play suspected.
Bell’s sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, announced his passing in a Facebook post on Sunday, June 15. She described her brother as “sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant and handsome” and noted that fate had pushed her to share the news due to a pre-scheduled Father’s Day newsletter honoring the men in their lives.
The actor played “Big Hawaiian Dude” in the recent live-action adaptation of “Lilo & Stitch,” which premiered May 23. His character became memorable for a comedic scene where he drops his shaved ice at the sight of an alien portal. Bell had celebrated his big-screen debut with family at opening night in Kapolei just two weeks before his death.
Bell’s representative, Lashauna Downie of Bliss Models and Talent, confirmed the actor’s death to multiple outlets. Downie stated, “He was one of my best talent & embodied the true meaning of aloha.” She described Bell as bringing light, kindness, and a beautiful spirit to all who knew him.
The Hawaii Police Department has launched a coroner’s inquest investigation, which is standard practice, and scheduled an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities emphasizing that no foul play is suspected in Bell’s death.
Bell was born January 10, 1979, and was raised in the Kaimuki neighborhood of Honolulu, Hawaii. Before his death, he lived in Waimea and worked as an assistant airport superintendent at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole. His voice could be heard over the PA system welcoming arrivals at the airport, where his sister noted he loved creating an awesome and safe customer experience.
Beyond his role in “Lilo & Stitch,” Bell had appeared in several Hawaii-based television productions. He played Isaac in a 2014 episode of “Hawaii Five-0” and portrayed Manu Saluni in two episodes of “Magnum P.I.” during 2018 and 2019. He also worked as a brand ambassador for Kona Brewing and performed voiceover work throughout his career.
Bell’s sister remembered their unique relationship, explaining that she met her brother for the first time when she was 18 years old on her high school graduation day. This surprise meeting, arranged by their mothers, created a lifelong bond. She indicated that while she did not grow up with a father, David provided all the unconditional love she could ask for, and she believed his family and friends received the same from him.
The actor’s educational background included attendance at Punahou School and Kalani High School, while their father spoke Hawaiian. His sister noted this combination allowed him to deliver lines with English understanding, Indigenous knowledge, and Pidgin, making him what she called “a diamond in the rough.”
Disney paid tribute to Bell in an Instagram post Tuesday, sharing a photo from his scene in the film. The company expressed being deeply saddened by his sudden loss and described him as kind, caring, and a friend to all on set. Disney stated he would forever be a member of the Disney and “Lilo & Stitch” family.
Bell had been enthusiastic about his entertainment career and the film industry. His sister recalled how excited he was about his breakthrough role in “Lilo & Stitch” and how he had planned ahead to purchase the best seats for the family to attend opening night together. She described being energized by seeing fans dressed in “Lilo & Stitch” merchandise from head to toe.
The actor had an upcoming project in post-production titled “The Wrecking Crew,” an action-comedy featuring Jason Momoa and David Bautista. Bell had shared videos from his “Lilo & Stitch” audition on social media in May, joking about special effects in his audition tape.
In her tribute, Bell’s sister reflected on their final time together after returning home from the movie screening. She described sitting on her living room couch, talking about life while having a seltzer and doing genealogy research. She concluded by encouraging others to hug their loved ones and promised to keep their memories alive through her heart, words, and actions.
Bell’s death came just weeks after achieving his dream of appearing on the big screen in a major Disney production. The live-action “Lilo & Stitch” has performed well at the box office, earning over $858 million globally and maintaining the number one position for three consecutive weeks before dropping to second place.