Actor David Hekili Kenui Bell, who recently featured in the live-action adaptation of Disney’s *Lilo & Stitch* and also held roles in popular television series filmed in Hawaii, has died at the age of 46.
The news of Bell’s passing was confirmed by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, in a poignant Facebook post shared on Sunday. As of now, a cause of death has not been publicly revealed.
In her heartfelt tribute, Jalene described her brother as “sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant and handsome.” She reflected on the profound impact he had, stating, “While I didn’t grow up with a Father, David gave me all the unconditional love I could possibly ask for and I believe that all his family and friends received the same from him.”
Bell’s representative, Lashauna Downie, also expressed her grief, telling TMZ that she learned of his death through social media. Downie shared, “This is heartbreaking & sad. He was one of my best talent[s] & embodied the true meaning of aloha… a gentle giant.”
Bell had recently made his debut on the big screen in the *Lilo & Stitch* remake, which saw a wider release this Monday. He portrayed a character recognized for a comedic moment involving a dropped shaved ice. Just last month, he celebrated this significant achievement by attending a cast-and-crew screening alongside friends and family. Following the event, Bell took to Instagram to express his gratitude, particularly acknowledging the vital contributions of the local crew: “Now, Mahalo to everyone who worked on this film! It was so awesome to see so many of the true stars in my opinion, our local crew in Hawaii. They deserve just as much or more recognition!”
Beyond his role in the *Lilo & Stitch* film, Bell was also known for his appearances in acclaimed Hawaii-based television shows such as *Magnum, P.I.* and *Hawaii Five-0*.
His sister highlighted his passion for his craft and the entertainment world. “David loved being an actor, doing voiceovers, spending time with Brutus traveling as an ambassador for Kona Brew. The film industry and entertainment was so exciting to him and I loved that he enjoyed the arts,” she wrote.
Bell’s unique background, including attending Punahou and Kalani schools and having a father who spoke Hawaiian, endowed him with a distinctive linguistic capability. According to his sister, his “ability to deliver lines with English understanding, Indigenous knowledge and Pidgin to da Max…made him a diamond in the rough.” His voice was also familiar to travelers, as he could be heard over the PA system at Kona Airport, contributing to the customer experience.
Concluding her remembrance, Jalene Bell affirmed, “He was and will remain a bright and shining star.”
David Hekili Kenui Bell will be remembered for his contributions to film and television, his unique talents, and the warmth and “aloha” he shared with those around him.
