The Tragic Final Chapter: 7 Shocking Facts About David Hekili Kenui Bell’s Life, Career, And Sudden Death

The entertainment world was stunned in mid-2025 by the news of David Hekili Kenui Bell’s unexpected passing, an actor celebrated for his roles in Hawaiian-set TV dramas and the highly anticipated live-action Disney remake of *Lilo & Stitch*. His death, which occurred on June 12, 2025, in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, at the age of 46, brought an abrupt end to a burgeoning career that championed local talent and authentic representation in Hollywood. This article provides a deep dive into his life, his most memorable roles, and the heartbreaking details revealed in his official autopsy report.

The tragedy of his passing, coming so soon after the release of his major film debut, has left fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a "sweet, generous, talented, funny" soul, as described by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell. The details of his final days, now public through the autopsy findings, paint a clearer picture of the health struggles the beloved Hawaiian actor faced.

David Hekili Kenui Bell: A Complete Biography and Profile

David Hekili Kenui Bell was a proud native of Hawaii who dedicated his career to showcasing the aloha spirit on screen. His work spanned popular television series and major motion pictures, establishing him as a recognizable figure in the modern Hawaiian film industry.

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• Full Name: David Hekili Kenui Bell
• Date of Birth: January 10, 1979
• Place of Birth: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
• Nationality: American
• Ethnicity: Hawaiian
• Known For: *Lilo & Stitch* (live-action remake), *Magnum P.I.*, *Hawaii Five-0*
• Date of Death: June 12, 2025
• Age at Death: 46
• Place of Death: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, USA (also cited as Waimea)
• Cause of Death: Acute Respiratory Failure and Sepsis (Official Autopsy Finding)
• Immediate Family: Jalene Kanani Bell (Sister)

The Shocking Autopsy Report: David Bell’s Official Cause of Death

The sudden and unexpected death of David Hekili Kenui Bell at the age of 46 led to an official investigation to determine the circumstances. While initial reports indicated no foul play, the subsequent autopsy, completed in July 2025, provided a clear, albeit heartbreaking, medical explanation for his passing.

Acute Respiratory Failure and Sepsis

The official cause of death was determined to be Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF), with Sepsis listed as a major contributing factor. Acute Respiratory Failure is a critical condition where the lungs cannot effectively exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to dangerously low oxygen levels in the blood. Sepsis is the body's life-threatening response to an infection, which can rapidly lead to organ failure, including the lungs.

The severity of these conditions highlights the rapid decline in the actor's health prior to his death. The autopsy report confirmed Bell was dealing with significant health problems before his unexpected passing.

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Contributing Health Factors

Further details from the autopsy revealed an underlying condition that contributed to his fatal health crisis: Stasis Dermatitis. This is a chronic skin condition that develops due to poor blood circulation, typically in the lower legs. While not a direct cause of death, it is indicative of systemic circulatory issues that can predispose a person to severe infections and complications like Sepsis. The combination of these factors ultimately overwhelmed his system.

The news of the official cause of death brought closure to his family, including his sister Jalene Kanani Bell, who had first shared the tragic news of his death on social media.

7 Key Highlights of David H.K. Bell’s Hawaiian Acting Career

David Hekili Kenui Bell’s career was characterized by authentic representation of the Hawaiian islands and a commitment to local storytelling. His roles, though often in guest or supporting capacities, were memorable and connected him to some of the most popular shows set in the state.

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1. The "Big Hawaiian Dude" in *Lilo & Stitch*

Bell’s most high-profile role was in the 2025 live-action remake of Disney's *Lilo & Stitch*. He was credited as the "Big Hawaiian Dude," a character that served as a direct nod to the iconic "Ice Cream Man" from the original animated film—a recurring sight gag in the franchise. This role was a major career milestone, marking his big-screen debut and showcasing his natural presence.

2. The Role of Manu Saluni in *Magnum P.I.*

Bell appeared in two episodes of the CBS reboot of *Magnum P.I.*, playing the character Manu Saluni. This role, which spanned appearances in 2018 and 2019, solidified his presence in the modern wave of Hawaii-based television productions. His work alongside the main cast demonstrated his ability to handle dramatic guest spots with authenticity.

3. Guest Appearance in *Hawaii Five-0*

Another key credit on his resume was the popular series *Hawaii Five-0*. Bell played the character Issac in a 2014 episode. These roles in major network shows filmed on location helped him build a strong foundation within the local acting community and the Hawaiian film industry.

4. Working with Kona Brewing

Beyond film and television, Bell was also known for his work in commercials, notably for Kona Brewing. This partnership further cemented his image as a local figurehead, representing a well-known Hawaiian brand. He was even seen at the 2025 Pele Show Awards representing the company shortly before his death.

5. A Champion of Hawaiian Talent

Bell was a part of a growing movement of actors ensuring that roles depicting the Hawaiian culture and people were filled by genuine local talent. His involvement in the *Lilo & Stitch* remake, which focused heavily on cultural accuracy and casting Hawaiian natives like Sydney Agudong and Kaipo Dudoit, was a testament to this commitment.

6. The Shave Ice Man Connection

While often referred to as the "Big Hawaiian Dude," some reports also referred to his character in *Lilo & Stitch* as the Shave Ice Man. This interchangeable title connects his character directly to the cultural significance of shave ice in Hawaii and the lighthearted nature of the Disney story.

7. A Legacy of Kindness and Humor

Tributes from his family and friends consistently focused on his personal qualities, not just his professional accomplishments. His sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, remembered him for his humor, generosity, and sweet nature, indicating that his positive impact extended far beyond the screen.