David Hekili Kenui Bell, a Hawaiian actor who appeared in Disney’s live-action “Lilo & Stitch” remake, has died at age 46. His sister Jalene Kanani Bell confirmed his death in a Facebook post on June 15, though the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
The Hawaii Police Department confirmed to People magazine on June 16 that Bell died on June 12. A police spokesperson indicated that authorities have launched a coroner’s inquest investigation, and an autopsy is being scheduled to determine the exact cause of death. The investigation is ongoing, and no foul play is suspected.
Bell played the character “Big Hawaiian Dude” in the 2025 live-action adaptation of “Lilo & Stitch,” which was released in May. His character memorably drops his shaved ice dessert at the beach in one of the film’s comedic scenes. The movie has been a commercial success, earning more than $850 million at the global box office and holding the number one position for three consecutive weeks after its release.
In her Facebook tribute, Jalene Kanani Bell described her brother as generous, talented, funny, brilliant, and handsome. She revealed that Bell had purchased tickets for his entire family to attend the opening night screening in Kapolei just two weeks before his death. The family celebrated together as they watched Bell’s big-screen debut, observing fans dressed in “Lilo & Stitch” merchandise from head to toe.
Bell’s sister reflected on their relationship. “I met my little brother at the age of 18, on my high school graduation day,” she wrote. “It was the most amazing surprise which I had been asking for for years, that our moms made happen for us, and that gift has lasted a lifetime.” She noted that Bell provided her with unconditional love and believed that all his family and friends received the same from him. “While I didn’t grow up with a Father, David gave me all the unconditional love I could possibly ask for,” she wrote in her tribute.
Beyond his role in “Lilo & Stitch,” Bell had appeared in other Hawaii-based television productions. He played Isaac in a 2014 episode of the “Hawaii Five-0” reboot and portrayed Manu Saluni in two episodes of the “Magnum P.I.” reboot in 2018 and 2019. According to his IMDb profile, Bell was set to appear in the upcoming action comedy “The Wrecking Crew,” starring Jason Momoa and Morena Baccarin, which is currently in post-production.
Bell was a member of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. His sister described him as someone who loved being an actor and doing voiceover work. She characterized him as a diamond in the rough, noting his ability to deliver lines with English understanding, Indigenous knowledge and Hawaiian Pidgin.
Outside of acting, Bell worked as an Assistant Airport Superintendent at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport in Keahole. His voice could be heard over the airport’s PA system welcoming travelers upon arrival. His sister noted that he loved working to create an awesome and safe customer experience for airport visitors.
Bell also served as an ambassador for Kona Brew, traveling with his companion Brutus in that capacity. He was a Kaimuki native who resided in Waimea, Hawaii, and attended Kalani High School as well as Punahou School. His educational background included exposure to the Hawaiian language through his father.
Bell’s representative, Lashauna Downie, expressed shock at learning of his death through social media. She described Bell as one of her best talent who embodied the true meaning of aloha and characterized him as a gentle giant. The representative indicated she was learning about the situation through social media reports.
Eight days before his death was announced, Bell shared a video on Facebook of the group Citi Limitz performing on “America’s Got Talent,” captioning the post with celebration emojis. Following a cast and crew screening of “Lilo & Stitch,” Bell had posted on Instagram expressing gratitude to everyone who worked on the film and highlighting the contributions of local Hawaiian crew members.
Bell is survived by his sister Jalene Kanani Bell, his aunt Gerry, and his sisters Kehau Bell and Lara Leimana. His sister concluded her tribute by encouraging others to hug their loved ones, reflecting on their last time together sitting on her living room couch talking about life, having a seltzer and doing genealogy research.
