5 Essential Facts About David Hekili Kenui Bell: A Tribute To The 'Lilo & Stitch' Star And Hawaiian Cultural Ambassador

The unexpected passing of David Hekili Kenui Bell on June 12, 2025, sent a wave of shock and sadness through the Hawaiian and entertainment communities worldwide. The beloved actor, who was 46, had just achieved a major career milestone with his role in the highly anticipated live-action remake of Disney’s *Lilo & Stitch*, a role that was particularly meaningful for its authentic representation of Hawaiian culture on a global stage. This article serves as a deep dive into the life and legacy of a man whose warmth, charisma, and deep connection to his home embodied the spirit of *aloha* for all who knew him. The information presented here is current as of December 18, 2025, and compiles the most recent updates regarding his professional life, his final on-screen appearance, and the official details surrounding his untimely death, which were recently made public through the official autopsy report.

David Hekili Kenui Bell: Complete Biography and Profile

David Hekili Kenui Bell was a proud Hawaiian actor, known for his charismatic presence and his commitment to authentic cultural representation in his work. His career spanned several notable television and film appearances, but his impact extended far beyond the screen, rooted deeply in his community and family.

• Full Name: David Hekili Kenui Bell
• Born: Circa 1979
• Died: June 12, 2025 (Age 46)
• Place of Death: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
• Cause of Death (Official Autopsy): Acute Respiratory Failure, Sepsis, Hypertensive/Atherosclerotic Heart Disease, and Morbid Obesity.
• Occupation: Actor, Cultural Ambassador
• Known For: Role as the "Big Hawaiian Dude" (or "Shave Ice Guy") in the live-action *Lilo & Stitch* (2025 film).
• Other Notable Roles: Manu Saluni in *Magnum P.I.*, Issac in *Hawaii Five-0*.
• Family: Mother: Geraldine Kenui Bell; Sister: Jalene Kanani Bell.
• Cultural Connection: Deeply connected to Hawaiian culture, often praised for embodying the spirit of *aloha*.
• Education/Early Career: Reportedly had a career background at Merril Lynch before focusing on acting.

The Significance of His Final Role in Disney's Lilo & Stitch

Bell’s final and most high-profile role came as the "Big Hawaiian Dude" in the 2025 live-action adaptation of the classic Disney film *Lilo & Stitch*. This role was a poignant capstone to his career, as the film is a major production set in his home state and focuses heavily on the themes of *ʻohana* (family) and Hawaiian culture.

His character was a clear homage to the recurring "Ice Cream Man" running gag from the original animated film, a hapless tourist who is constantly thwarted from enjoying his ice cream. Bell’s portrayal, however, brought a fresh, authentic Hawaiian face to a globally recognized property. The actor was often credited as David H K Bell in the film, a detail that is now part of his enduring legacy.

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The release of the film, which occurred just weeks before his death, put Bell in the international spotlight. His presence on screen was celebrated for providing genuine representation, moving away from past Hollywood portrayals that sometimes lacked local nuance. Bell’s natural charisma and warmth resonated with audiences, making his character a memorable part of the film's ensemble cast.

Bell’s sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, was among the first to confirm the tragic news, sharing that her brother was always about family and deeply loved visiting his *ʻohana* on Maui. This emphasis on *ʻohana* mirrors the core message of the *Lilo & Stitch* narrative, solidifying the profound connection between the actor, his role, and his culture.

A Career Defined by Aloha: From Hawaii Five-0 to Magnum P.I.

While the Disney film brought him mainstream recognition, David Hekili Kenui Bell had been a consistent and recognizable face in the world of television, particularly within productions filmed in Hawaii. His work on these shows highlighted his versatility and his deep roots in the local acting scene.

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One of his earlier television appearances was in the reboot of *Hawaii Five-0*. In this popular CBS series, Bell played the character Issac in a 2014 episode. This role provided an early platform for his talent, showcasing his ability to handle co-starring roles in a high-production environment. The experience on the set of *Hawaii Five-0* was a valuable stepping stone in his professional journey.

He later secured a more prominent role as Manu Saluni in the 2018 reboot of *Magnum P.I.*, another major CBS production set and filmed across the Hawaiian islands. His work on these two cornerstone Hawaiian-set shows demonstrated his reliability and his status as a key figure in the local talent pool. These roles, though smaller than his final film appearance, were instrumental in establishing his reputation as a dedicated professional.

Beyond his scripted roles, Bell also lent his distinct presence to commercial work. Notably, he was the star of a national commercial campaign for the Kona Brewing Company. This commercial, which often aired across the mainland United States, further cemented his image as an authentic and relatable representative of the Hawaiian lifestyle and culture. His natural screen presence and genuine embodiment of the island spirit made him an ideal choice for the brand.

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The Official Autopsy Report: Details on His Sudden Passing

David Hekili Kenui Bell passed away suddenly at his home in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, at the age of 46. The news was met with an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans, and the local community. To provide clarity and closure, the official autopsy report was later released, detailing the medical findings that led to his death.

The report listed the official cause of death as Acute Respiratory Failure. This is a serious condition where the lungs cannot get enough oxygen into the blood or remove enough carbon dioxide. Furthermore, the autopsy identified three other significant pathological findings that contributed to his passing: Sepsis, Hypertensive/Atherosclerotic Heart Disease, and Morbid Obesity.

Sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body's response to infection, was a major factor. The presence of Hypertensive/Atherosclerotic Heart Disease indicates a long-term heart condition that involves the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, often linked to high blood pressure. The report also noted that Bell was suffering from stasis dermatitis and edema, and had complained of difficulty breathing in the time leading up to his death. These details paint a picture of a man who was quietly struggling with serious health issues.

Despite the tragic circumstances, the release of the autopsy information provided a definitive answer to the community mourning his loss. It allowed for a shift from speculation to a focus on celebrating his life and the legacy of joy, humor, and *aloha* he left behind.

Legacy and The Enduring Spirit of Aloha

The legacy of David Hekili Kenui Bell is not just in the characters he played, but in the spirit he brought to every role and interaction. He was a true cultural ambassador, using his platform to share the warmth and richness of Hawaiian culture with a global audience. His dedication to his mother, Geraldine Kenui Bell, and his love for his extended *ʻohana* were central to his identity, as noted by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell.

His final performance in *Lilo & Stitch* will forever stand as a testament to his commitment to authentic storytelling. It’s a role that brought fresh, positive representation to a major Hollywood production, a goal that many Hawaiian actors strive for. The character of the "Big Hawaiian Dude" is now imbued with a deeper meaning, representing the quiet strength and enduring spirit of the islands.

Bell’s influence also extended into the business world, with a reported background at Merril Lynch, showing a diverse career path that eventually led him back to his passion for the arts and his home. This multifaceted life, combined with his unforgettable screen presence, ensures that the memory of David Hekili Kenui Bell will continue to resonate for years to come. He will be remembered not only as the "shave ice guy" but as a beloved son, brother, and a proud son of Hawaii who truly embodied the spirit of *aloha*.