Tragic Loss: David Hekili Kenui Bell, Lilo & Stitch Star, Passes at 46
SHOCKING DEATH OF DAVID HEKILI KENUI BELL ROCKS HOLLYWOOD
In a sudden and tragic turn of events, beloved actor David Hekili Kenui Bell has left this world at the tender age of 46. The news sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, leaving fans and colleagues stunned and grief-stricken.
According to authorities, foul play has been ruled out in Bell's untimely passing, but the exact cause of death remains under investigation. His family confirmed his passing on Sunday, with sister Jalene Kanani Bell sharing a heartfelt tribute on Facebook.
"We have launched a coroner's inquest investigation (as is standard practice) and an autopsy is being scheduled to determine the exact cause of death," a police spokesperson told TheScholarlyNote.com. "The investigation is ongoing at this time. No foul play is suspected."
Bell, best known for his role as the lovable "Big Hawaiian Dude" in Disney's live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, had just made his big-screen debut in the film on May 23. His family revealed that he had been planning to celebrate with a special outing at the movie's opening night in Kapolei, but sadly, it was not meant to be.
In a statement obtained by TheScholarlyNote.com, Bell's rep described him as an "extraordinary talent and a deeply cherished member of our BLISS ʻOhana (family)." She went on to praise his kind spirit, saying: "David brought light, kindness, and a beautiful spirit to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be profoundly missed by everyone whose lives he touched."
Maia Kealoha, who played Lilo in the film, paid tribute to her late costar on Instagram, calling him an "uncle" due to their close bond. "Eh Uncle David, save some shave ice for me too k?! Maia is surely going to miss telling you that," she wrote.
Sydney Elizebeth Agudong, who played Nani Pelekai in the film, described Bell as a "beautiful, bright, and kind soul." She shared her own heartfelt tribute on social media, saying: "Thank you for your love & endless support. It was a pleasure to work with you and to have crossed paths on Lilo & Stitch."
In addition to his role in Lilo & Stitch, Bell had also made appearances in Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-O. His IMDb profile reveals that he is set to appear in another film, The Wrecking Crew, which is currently in post-production.
As news of Bell's passing spread, fans and colleagues alike took to social media to share their favorite memories and tributes to the beloved actor. His last Instagram post was on May 30, where he shared an interview with the team behind Kona Brewing's campaign, which won the Pele Award for Best In Show for Advertising.
Bell, an ambassador for the brand, raved about the achievement in his caption: "2025 Pele Awards Overall Winner! #KonaBrewingHawaii #NMG #NellaMediaGroup."
The actor had been keeping fans up-to-date on the film's progress on his social media accounts. Just last month, he shared a hilarious video of his audition, which saw him humorously failing to eat a fake snow cone.
"My audition had some special effects," he captioned the post. "I'm pretty sure that's what did it... Also some random stuff... #LiloAndStitch #Stitch #Disney."
As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues alike, Bell's family is left to mourn his sudden passing. In a statement shared on TheScholarlyNote.com, sister Jalene Kanani Bell wrote: "Rest in love, dear David. Your legacy and aloha spirit will live on in the hearts of all of us. A hui hou — until we meet again."
Aloha to an Angel
David Hekili Kenui Bell's sudden passing has left fans and colleagues reeling. But as we remember his life and legacy, we are reminded of the impact he had on those around him.
From his early days as a voice actor to his big-screen debut in Lilo & Stitch, Bell was a shining star who lit up the room with his infectious energy and kind spirit. His family and friends remembered him as a gentle giant, always putting others before himself.
As we bid farewell to this bright and shining star, we take comfort in knowing that his aloha spirit will live on in our hearts. A hui hou, dear David.