The Tragic And Sudden Death Of 'Lilo & Stitch' Actor David Hekili Kenui Bell: What The Autopsy Revealed

The entertainment world was struck by a profound and sudden loss in 2025 with the passing of actor David Hekili Kenui Bell, an emerging talent from the highly anticipated live-action remake of Disney's classic, Lilo & Stitch. The news of his death, which occurred just weeks after the film's premiere, sent shockwaves through the cast, crew, and the Hawaiian community he proudly represented. As of today, December 11, 2025, the full details of his unexpected demise have been released, painting a clearer, albeit tragic, picture of the health struggles the 46-year-old actor was quietly facing.

Bell’s passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life, especially for a performer who had just made his major big-screen debut in a beloved franchise. The actor, known for his warm presence and deep connection to his Hawaiian roots, had a small but memorable role in the 2025 film, yet his impact on the production and his community was significant. This article delves into the life, career, and the specific circumstances of David Hekili Kenui Bell's death, based on the latest official reports.

David Hekili Kenui Bell: A Life Rooted in Hawaii

David Hekili Kenui Bell was a proud Hawaiian actor whose career was on a steady rise, connecting his passion for performance with his deep cultural heritage. His roles often celebrated the local culture and landscapes of his home state, bringing an authentic and warm presence to the screen.

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• Full Name: David Hekili Kenui Bell
• Nationality: American (Hawaiian)
• Age at Death: 46
• Date of Death: June 12, 2025
• Location of Death: Hawaii, USA
• Known For: Playing the "Big Hawaiian Dude" (Shave Ice Guy) in the live-action Lilo & Stitch (2025).
• Other Notable Roles: Manu Saluni in the 2018 series Magnum P.I. and Issac in the 2014 series Hawaii Five-0.
• Community Involvement: He was an active member of the local community, including representing Kona Brewing at the Pele Show Awards.

Bell's career trajectory reflected a commitment to telling authentic Hawaiian stories. Before his role in the Disney remake, he had established himself in local productions and popular network series filmed in Hawaii, such as Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0. His casting in Lilo & Stitch was seen as a nod to Disney's effort to maintain cultural authenticity in the live-action adaptation, a detail that made his debut all the more meaningful for the local community.

The Shocking Timeline: Death Weeks After Film Premiere

The timing of David Hekili Kenui Bell's death is particularly poignant, occurring shortly after the release of the film that represented his biggest break. The live-action Lilo & Stitch, directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, premiered on May 17, 2025, and was released in the United States on May 23, 2025. Bell passed away on June 12, 2025, less than a month after the film's wide release.

His role, though minor, was a charming tribute to the original animated film. Bell portrayed the "Big Hawaiian Dude," a character affectionately known to fans of the 2002 animated classic as the "Shave Ice Guy." This character is famous for the humorous scene where he is repeatedly hit by Stitch’s antics, always resulting in his shave ice being ruined. Bell’s performance brought this beloved moment to life for a new generation.

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The suddenness of the loss led to an outpouring of tributes from his co-stars and the production team. Disney released a statement expressing deep sadness, acknowledging him as a "kind, caring, and a friend to all on set" who would "forever be a member of the Disney and Lilo & Stitch family."

Unpacking the Autopsy Report: The Revealed Cause of Death

Initial reports following David Hekili Kenui Bell's passing at age 46 indicated that no foul play was suspected, but the cause of death remained undetermined pending an official autopsy. The subsequent release of the autopsy report by the Hawaii Police Department provided clarity, revealing a series of acute health issues that led to his demise.

The official cause of death was attributed to a combination of severe pathological findings, including Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF) and Sepsis. These conditions indicate that his lungs were unable to effectively exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide (ARF), and his body was battling a severe, life-threatening infection response (Sepsis).

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Furthermore, the autopsy detailed pre-existing conditions that contributed to his passing, including:

• Stasis Dermatitis: A common skin condition caused by poor circulation, typically in the lower legs.
• Edema: Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues.

The report tragically noted that Bell had complained of difficulty breathing before his death, and emergency services attempted to revive him, with defibrillator pads found at the scene. The complexity of these findings underscores the serious and rapid nature of the health crisis that claimed the actor's life, highlighting the hidden struggles he faced despite his public persona.

The Legacy of the Live-Action 'Ohana

David Hekili Kenui Bell's death occurred at a pivotal moment for the *Lilo & Stitch* franchise. The live-action remake has been a major topic of discussion, not only for its casting choices but also for its attempt to honor the spirit of the 2002 original. Bell was part of a cast that included a mix of established and new Hawaiian talent, reinforcing the theme of 'ohana (family).

His co-stars in the 2025 film include:

• Maia Kealoha as Lilo Pelekai
• Sydney Elizabeth Agudong as Nani Pelekai
• Kaipo Dudoit as David Kawena
• Chris Sanders as the voice of Stitch (reprising his role from the original)
• Zach Galifianakis as Jumba
• Billy Magnussen as Pleakley
• Amy Hill as Tūtū

Bell’s presence contributed to the film’s authentic atmosphere, and his passing serves as a somber footnote to the film’s release. The loss is felt not just in Hollywood, but deeply within the close-knit Hawaiian acting community, where he was a familiar and respected figure. His brief but memorable screen time ensures his contribution to the *Lilo & Stitch* legacy will be preserved, forever linking him to the beloved Disney story of family and belonging.

His work on Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0 further cemented his reputation as a dedicated local actor who was committed to showcasing the beauty and culture of his homeland. The tributes from his colleagues consistently describe a kind, friendly, and generous soul, underscoring that the loss is personal for those who worked alongside him. The memory of David Hekili Kenui Bell will continue to be cherished by his family, friends, and the fans who were just beginning to know him through his latest, and tragically final, performance.