Fans of the newly released Lilo & Stitch live-action movie are mourning the sudden and heartbreaking news, David Hekili Kenui Bell, who made his big screen debut in the film, has tragically passed away just weeks after celebrating the premiere.
Known for his role as the “Big Hawaiian Dude,” David Hekili Kenui Bell’s death has shaken both the entertainment world and his tight-knit Hawaiian community.
The devastating announcement came from his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, who shared an emotional tribute on Facebook. She described her brother as a “sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant, and handsome” soul who touched every life he encountered. “He was and will remain a bright and shining star,” she wrote, adding that fate pushed her to share the heartbreaking news on Father’s Day through a scheduled family newsletter.
Bell had just treated his family to a special night, he purchased the best seats in the house so they could all enjoy the Lilo & Stitch premiere together in Kapolei. That evening, just two weeks before his passing, became a lasting memory for his loved ones. Jalene recalled their last conversation, relaxed on her couch, sharing stories, drinking seltzer, and bonding over family history. She promised to “keep their memories alive.”
Although no cause of death has been made public, the loss feels especially painful coming at a moment of career celebration for Bell. His rep, Lashauna Downie, said she was blindsided by the news, learning of his death through social media. Describing Bell as a “gentle giant” and one of her best talents, she called his passing “heartbreaking and sad,” praising his embodiment of the true aloha spirit.
Outside of his film debut, Bell was a proud Hawaiian best known locally for his cheerful voice work over the PA system at Kona Airport. He also had acting credits in hit TV shows like Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0 and was beloved by many in the Hawaiian entertainment scene.
Tributes for Bell have poured in across social media since the news broke. One fan shared, “So sad! What a loss for his family, friends, and fans.” Another simply said, “RIP young star,” capturing the collective grief of those who admired his work and kind heart.
Bell’s passing serves as a stark reminder of how fleeting life can be. Just as his career was beginning to gain national attention, his light was unexpectedly dimmed. Still, those closest to him are holding onto the joy he brought into their lives and honoring his memory as a symbol of aloha, love, and legacy.
As the Lilo & Stitch live-action film continues to make waves, fans now watch with a heavy heart, knowing that one of its stars, who brought warmth and authenticity to the role, is no longer with us. His family, friends, and fans will carry on his memory, forever cherishing the “Big Hawaiian Dude” who left far too soon.
Jamie Wells has a knack for getting the inside scoop on Hollywood’s biggest stars and up-and-coming talent. With a sharp eye for industry trends and an ear for viral moments, Jamie covers everything from red-carpet events to behind-the-scenes drama in movies, TV, and celebrity culture.
