Who is David Hekili Kenui Bell? Age and all we know as tributes pour in for late Lilo and Stitch actor

Actor David Hekili Kenui Bell, who recently rose to fame for his role in the live action remake of "Lilo & Snitch" passed away on 12 June. According to Variety, the news of his death was confirmed in a statement by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell on Facebook, although no cause of death has been revealed. She said:

"It is with a heavy heart I share that my sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant and handsome little brother David H. K. Bell will spend today in the company of our Heavenly Father."

David Hekili Kenui Bell's death comes less than a month after the premiere of "Lilo & Snitch," which took place on 23 May. Bell, who had appeared in several TV shows like, "Magnum P.I"," "Hawaii Five-O," had also been featured in commercials for the Hawaiian beer company, Kona Brewing, according to People Magazine.

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More about David Hekili Kenui Bell, as the news of the actor's sudden death emerges

David Hekili Kenui Bell, who was 57 at the time of his death, achieved recognition with his recent portrayal of the "big Hawaiian dude," who is hilariously seen repeatedly trying to take a bite of his shaved ice dessert, only to drop it when he sees a alien portal open in the film.

Born and raised in Hawaii, Bell had recently shared a video of his time at the 2025 Pele Show Awards, where he represented Kona Brewing, which won the award for Best In Show for Advertising, according to Daily Mail.

According to Deadline, he attended Kalani High school and later attended Hawaii Community College. Apart from acting, he previously worked as an assistant airport superintendent at Elison Onizuka Kona International airport. In an exclusive statement given to People Magazine, the Hawaiian police have stated that no foul play is suspected in Bell's death. They said:

"We have launched a coroner’s inquest investigation (as is standard practice) and an autopsy is being scheduled to determine the exact cause of death," a police spokesperson continued. "The investigation is ongoing at this time. No foul play is suspected."

David Hekili Kenui Bell had also recently posted moments from his audition tape and time on the set. In the caption, he wrote:

"My audition tape had some special effects. I'm pretty sure that's what did it. Also some random stuff."

The sudden and untimely death of David Hekili Kenui Bell has prompted fans to take to social media to express their grief and pay their respects. This fan said:

"rest easy, mahalo for the memories and the mana you gave this world."

Another person commented:

"oh No ! what happen to Him ?? god bless his soul."

This fan wrote:

"Rip, he gave us great memories."

"Prayers go out to his family 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻" wrote another.

Another person said:

"Life is so short, may his memory be a blessing."

"Aw man, RIP to the Lilo & Stitch legend. Gone too soon." said this fan.

David Hekili Kenui Bell, was a member of SAG-AFTRA and was gearing up for the release of his lastest movie, "The Wrecking Crew" starring Jason Mamoa and David Bautista.