5 Essential Facts About David Hekili Kenui Bell: The Hawaiian Heart Of Disney's Lilo & Stitch Remake

The entertainment world and the Hawaiian community continue to mourn the loss of David Hekili Kenui Bell, a cherished local actor whose final, memorable performance brought a touch of authentic island spirit to a global audience. The news of his passing in June 2025, just weeks after the highly anticipated release of the Disney film he was a part of, sent a wave of sadness across fans and colleagues alike. As of today, December 18, 2025, his legacy as a true son of Hawaiʻi, a dedicated community member, and a rising star in Hollywood remains a powerful testament to his vibrant life.

Bell, known for his deep connection to his home state and his infectious passion for performance, cemented his place in cinematic history with his role in the live-action remake of *Lilo & Stitch*. While his on-screen time as the "Shave Ice Guy" was brief, the moment quickly became iconic, symbolizing the authentic Hawaiian casting that the production championed. This article delves into the life, career, and enduring impact of the man whose presence illuminated both the big screen and the Kona community.

David Hekili Kenui Bell: A Life and Legacy in Hawaiian Performance

David Hekili Kenui Bell’s life was a rich tapestry woven with the threads of Hawaiian culture, dedication to community, and a burgeoning career in acting. His full name, David Hekili Kenui Bell, itself speaks to his deep roots in the islands, a heritage he carried with pride in every endeavor.

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Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Bell grew up immersed in the vibrant life and traditions of the islands. His commitment to his home was evident in his professional life, which extended far beyond the glimmer of Hollywood. He was a man of many talents, combining a passion for the arts with significant civic responsibilities.

Biography and Key Profile Details

• Full Name: David Hekili Kenui Bell
• Born: Circa 1979
• Died: June 12, 2025, in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
• Age at Death: 46 years old
• Hometown: Honolulu, Hawaii
• Notable Film Role: "Shave Ice Guy" (also referred to as "Big Hawaiian Dude") in Disney's live-action *Lilo & Stitch* (2025)
• Other Television Roles: Appeared in reboots of *Hawaii Five-0* and *Magnum P.I.*
• Other Career: Assistant Airport Superintendent and Public Address Voice Artist at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (Kona Airport)
• Family: Survived by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, who confirmed his passing
• Known For: His passion for acting, voiceover work, and community involvement

Before his breakthrough film role, Bell was already a familiar and respected figure in the local scene. His work often involved representing the spirit of Hawaiʻi, whether through his voice or his on-screen presence. He utilized his talents in areas like voiceover work, which was a significant part of his career, especially in his primary job outside of acting.

His early television appearances in popular, Hawaii-set reboots like *Hawaii Five-0* (circa 2014) and *Magnum P.I.* established him as a recognizable talent within the local entertainment industry. These roles underscored his commitment to authentic Hawaiian representation on screen, a theme that would define his most famous part. The entities involved in these productions, such as CBS and the various local production teams, recognized his natural charisma and deep understanding of the island setting.

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The Unforgettable 'Shave Ice Guy' and His Final Role

David Hekili Kenui Bell's most globally recognized role came with the Disney live-action adaptation of the beloved 2002 animated feature, *Lilo & Stitch*. The film, which was one of the most anticipated releases of 2025, was lauded for its commitment to casting local Hawaiian actors, and Bell was a key part of that authenticity.

In the movie, Bell played the "Shave Ice Guy"—a character whose brief but memorable scene perfectly encapsulated the blend of everyday island life and the sudden, chaotic arrival of an alien presence. The scene, which features his character dropping his shave ice after a close encounter with aliens, became a talking point among fans and critics. He was also sometimes credited as the "Big Hawaiian Dude," a nod to his imposing yet gentle on-screen presence.

The film, which premiered on May 23, 2025, featured a talented cast deeply connected to the islands, including Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Sydney Elizabeth Agudong as Nani. The inclusion of actors like Bell, alongside established stars such as Chris Sanders (reprising his voice role as Stitch) and Billy Magnussen, helped ground the fantastical story in a genuine Hawaiian setting.

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Bell’s performance, though a cameo, was significant. It was a moment of pure, relatable Hawaiian life interrupted by the extraordinary, and his natural, unforced acting contributed greatly to the film's local charm. His death on June 12, 2025, came tragically close to the film's release, turning his final performance into a poignant farewell for his fans and the entire cast and crew of the Disney production.

Beyond the Screen: David Bell's Deep Roots in the Kona Community

To truly understand David Hekili Kenui Bell's impact, one must look beyond his acting credits to his life in the Kona community on the Big Island. His primary professional career was not in Hollywood, but in the essential infrastructure of Hawaiʻi: he served as an Assistant Airport Superintendent at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport.

This role was a testament to his dedication and work ethic. Furthermore, he was widely recognized for his distinctive voice work over the public address system at the airport. For many travelers and locals, his voice was the welcoming sound of arrival and the familiar tone of departure from Kona Airport. This voiceover work was a core part of his identity and a daily connection to the community he loved.

Bell's commitment to his home was not limited to his job. He was known for his community involvement and his passion for promoting Hawaiian artistry and representation. His work ethic and his friendly demeanor made him a beloved figure in Kailua-Kona, where he resided and eventually passed away.

The combination of his local fame from his airport role and his national recognition from the *Lilo & Stitch* movie highlights a unique career trajectory. He was a local hero who achieved Hollywood recognition without ever sacrificing his connection to the people and the place that shaped him. This duality—the Hollywood actor and the dedicated civil servant—is a powerful part of his enduring legacy.

Honoring a True Son of Hawaiʻi

The passing of David Hekili Kenui Bell at the age of 46 was a profound loss for his family, the cast of *Lilo & Stitch*, and the countless members of the Hawaiian community who knew him. His sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, shared the heartbreaking news, prompting an outpouring of condolences from across the globe.

Bell’s life serves as an inspiration, showcasing how one can pursue artistic dreams while remaining deeply anchored in one's cultural heritage and community. His work in *Hawaii Five-0*, *Magnum P.I.*, and especially *Lilo & Stitch* will forever stand as a testament to his talent and his role in bringing authentic Hawaiian stories and faces to the screen. The entities he touched, from the Television Academy to the local government agencies in Kona, all recognized his unique contribution.

As the *Lilo & Stitch* remake continues to be viewed by millions, David Hekili Kenui Bell's brief, unforgettable appearance ensures that a piece of his genuine Hawaiian spirit will live on in cinematic history. His legacy is one of pride, performance, and a deep, abiding love for the islands he called home. He will be remembered not only as the "Shave Ice Guy" but as a true embodiment of the Aloha spirit.