David Hekili Kenui Bell, the warm-hearted Hawaiian actor who lit up screens big and small with his energy and aloha, has passed away at the age of 46. His sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, shared the heartbreaking news in an emotional Facebook post on June 15, 2025. For many in Hawaii and beyond, his loss feels deeply personal.
Most people got to know Bell through his memorable role in Disney’s live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, which dropped just a few weeks ago on May 23. He played the lovable “Big Hawaiian Dude”, a short but unforgettable part that had audiences laughing as he fumbled his shaved ice in shock after seeing an alien portal open up.
It was one of those blink-and-you ‘ll-smile moments that fans instantly embraced. David Hekili Kenui Bell arrived at the Kapolei premiere with his family in tow, beaming with pride. Locals packed the venue in full Lilo & Stitch gear, and Bell soaked up every second of it. For him, it was more than just a red carpet; it was home.
David Hekili Kenui Bell: A Familiar Face (and Voice) in Hawaiian Media
Long before Disney came calling, David Hekili Kenui Bell had established a steady career in Hawaii’s TV scene, with appearances on Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum, P.I. But his presence wasn’t limited to TV. If you’ve flown into Kona, you might’ve heard his cheerful voice welcoming you over the airport PA system. That was Bell, too, extending the aloha spirit to travelers, one announcement at a time. He wasn’t just an actor; he was a thread in the fabric of local culture, always finding ways to represent Hawaii with heart and humor.
A Bond Forged in Surprise and Love
Jalene’s tribute painted a touching portrait of the man behind the roles. She called him “sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant, and handsome”, someone who had a gift for making people feel like they mattered. In a twist worthy of a movie, she didn’t meet David Hekili Kenui Bell until her high school graduation. That unexpected moment turned into a deep sibling bond, filled with love and mutual support. Even without a shared father figure in their childhood, David became a rock for her, a constant, comforting presence.
More Than a Performer: A True Ambassador of Aloha
David Hekili Kenui Bell’s agent, Lashauna Downie, remembered him as a “gentle giant” who carried the aloha spirit with him in everything he did. A proud member of the Screen Actors Guild, Bell took his work seriously, especially when it came to authentically portraying Hawaiian culture.
He often blended English, Hawaiian, and Pidgin in his roles, ensuring the island’s stories were told with care. He also did voiceover work, including for Kona Brewing Co., where his rich voice made an already-good beer commercial feel like a hug from home.
Saying Goodbye, and Holding On
The exact cause of death hasn’t been made public yet. Police confirmed that Bell passed on June 12 at 2:26 p.m., and a coroner’s inquest is underway. His sister urged people to appreciate every moment with those they love, writing simply: “Hug your loved ones today.”While his public life was filled with laughter and bright lights, Jalene shared that some of her favorite memories were the quiet ones—lounging on the couch, sipping seltzer, or exploring family history together.
These are the moments she’ll carry with her. David Hekili Kenui Bell was more than just an actor. He was a symbol of warmth, joy, and what it means to live with aloha. Whether through a TV screen or a PA system, he made people feel welcome. And in Hawaii, that kind of spirit never really fades. It just echoes.
