The Tragic And Inspiring Life Of David Hekili Kenui Bell: 5 Things You Didn't Know About The 'Lilo & Stitch' Star

The news of David Hekili Kenui Bell’s passing in June 2025 sent shockwaves through the Hawaiian community and the entertainment world, just as his career was beginning to take off. The actor, best known for his role in the highly anticipated live-action remake of Disney's *Lilo & Stitch*, was a proud symbol of Native Hawaiian culture and a man who seamlessly balanced a demanding public service career with his lifelong passion for acting. This article, updated in December 2025, serves as a deep dive into the life, career, and legacy of a talent taken too soon, exploring the unique path he forged both on and off the screen.

The sudden death of the 46-year-old actor, confirmed by his sister Jalene Kanani Bell, has led to an outpouring of tributes from those who knew him as a joyful person and a dedicated professional. Bell’s recent film debut was a testament to his dedication to representing his home state, a commitment that defined his entire life. Beyond the spotlight, the details of his non-acting life and the heartbreaking circumstances revealed in his autopsy report paint a complex picture of a man who was much more than just a rising star.

David Hekili Kenui Bell: A Full Biography and Profile

David Hekili Kenui Bell was a beloved figure whose life was deeply rooted in the culture and community of Hawaii. His biography is a compelling story of a man who held a significant public service role while simultaneously pursuing a career in acting, becoming an authentic voice for his people on a global stage.

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• Full Name: David Hekili Kenui Bell
• Date of Birth: January 10, 1979
• Age at Death: 46 years old
• Date of Death: June 12, 2025
• Birthplace: Honolulu, Hawaii
• Residence: Waimea, Hawaii (on the Big Island)
• Education: Attended Kalani High School
• Notable Acting Role: "Big Hawaiian Dude" (or Kahiau) in Disney's live-action *Lilo & Stitch* remake (2025)
• Other Acting Credits: Issac in the 2014 series *Hawaii Five-0*
• Non-Acting Career: Assistant Airport Superintendent at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole
• Family: Survived by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, who confirmed the news of his death

Born and raised in Honolulu, Bell was a Kaimuki native who later resided in Waimea, on the Big Island of Hawaii. His commitment to his home extended far beyond his acting roles; he was a proud representative of Native Hawaiian culture, a theme that permeated his professional and personal life.

The Dual Career: Airport Superintendent and Disney Actor

One of the most surprising and admirable aspects of David Hekili Kenui Bell's life was his highly successful dual career. While many know him for his recent foray into Hollywood, his primary professional life was dedicated to public service and aviation management on the Big Island.

Bell held the prestigious and demanding position of Assistant Airport Superintendent at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole. This role, which he held until his passing, was one he took immense pride in, involving the complex operations and safety of one of Hawaii's key transportation hubs. His sister, Jalene, often recalled how his voice could be heard over the airport's public address system, a testament to his daily presence and commitment to his job.

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His acting career, while beginning with minor roles like Issac in *Hawaii Five-0* in 2014, truly peaked with his casting in the 2025 live-action *Lilo & Stitch* remake. This role was his major film debut, a significant achievement for any actor, especially one who was born and raised in the islands.

This balance between a rigorous day job in airport operations and a burgeoning film career showcased Bell’s extraordinary work ethic and his deep desire to represent Hawaii in every facet of his life. He was a genuine local talent, bringing authenticity and heart to the screen.

His Pivotal Role in the Live-Action 'Lilo & Stitch' Remake

David Hekili Kenui Bell's casting in the live-action *Lilo & Stitch* was a moment of immense pride for him and for the Native Hawaiian community. He was cast as the character known as the "Big Hawaiian Dude". This role was more than just a background appearance; it was an intentional nod to the beloved "Ice Cream Man," a humorous running gag in the original animated film where a hapless tourist continually loses his ice cream cone.

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Bell's involvement was part of Disney's commitment to casting actors of Polynesian descent for the film, ensuring the story’s deep roots in Hawaiian culture were respected and authentically portrayed. On his social media, Bell had shared behind-the-scenes photos from the set and even a clip from his audition, demonstrating his excitement and dedication to the project. His performance was eagerly anticipated by fans who appreciated the casting of a true local to embody the spirit of the islands.

His portrayal of the character, sometimes referred to as Kahiau, was his final and most prominent on-screen performance, solidifying his place as a memorable contributor to a major Disney production.

The Autopsy Report: Revealing the Cause of David Hekili Kenui Bell's Death

The sudden and tragic nature of David Hekili Kenui Bell’s death at the age of 46 prompted a high level of public interest and curiosity. In the months following his passing, the Hawaii Police Department released the official autopsy report, providing a clearer picture of the health struggles the actor was facing.

The report, obtained by media outlets in August 2025, listed several "pathological diagnoses" that contributed to his passing. The primary cause of death was determined to be acute respiratory failure. Further details revealed that Bell had been dealing with other significant health issues, including stasis dermatitis and edema.

Stasis dermatitis is a common skin condition that occurs due to poor blood circulation in the legs, while edema is swelling caused by fluid retention. The autopsy also confirmed that Bell had complained of difficulty breathing in the time leading up to his death. The release of these details, while heartbreaking, provided closure and a fuller understanding of the circumstances surrounding the loss of the talented Native Hawaiian actor.

Legacy of a Hawaiian Talent and Community Leader

David Hekili Kenui Bell’s legacy is not just that of an actor who made a memorable film debut, but of a proud Hawaiian who dedicated his life to his community and culture. His story is a powerful example of a person who excelled in two vastly different, yet equally important, fields.

He was celebrated for his work at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, managing crucial infrastructure, and simultaneously for his commitment to authentic representation in media. The tributes that followed his death consistently highlighted his joyful spirit and the pride he took in his heritage.

Bell's participation in the *Lilo & Stitch* remake will forever stand as a testament to his talent and his success in bringing a genuine Hawaiian presence to a worldwide audience. His life continues to be celebrated as a symbol of the unique talent and deep heart found within the Hawaiian islands. The outpouring of support and shared memories from friends, family, and colleagues ensures that the memory of David Hekili Kenui Bell—the actor, the superintendent, and the proud Hawaiian—will remain a bright and shining star in the community he loved.