Hollywood is mourning the loss of David Hekili Kenui Bell, a Hawaiian actor who recently appeared in Disney’s live-action film Lilo & Stitch. Bell passed away at the age of 57. His death was confirmed by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, through an emotional social media post. The news comes just weeks after Bell celebrated his big-screen debut in the Lilo & Stitch movie.
David Hekili Kenui Bell was known for his significant role as the “Shave Ice Man,” also referred to as the “Big Hawaiian Dude,” in the recently released live-action adaptation of the classic Disney animated film Lilo & Stitch. In the movie, his character comically drops his shaved ice upon seeing an alien portal open on the island, a moment that pays tribute to a running gag in the original 2002 animation where a hapless tourist repeatedly drops his ice cream. Bell had expressed immense excitement about his involvement in the film and had shared behind-the-scenes photos and his original audition tape on his social media.
Bell recently attended a cast and crew screening of Lilo & Stitch in Kapolei, Hawaii, just two weeks before his passing. His sister, Jalene, shared that David had thoughtfully purchased the best seats in the theater for their family to attend the premiere together. She noted his joy in seeing fans dressed in Lilo & Stitch attire, which greatly energized them. Bell often spoke about how special it was to see so many local Hawaiian crew members as the “true stars” of the production.
Beyond his recent role in Lilo & Stitch, David Hekili Kenui Bell had a career that spanned various entertainment and community involvement. He was a member of SAG-AFTRA, the Screen Actors Guild. His acting credits included appearances in popular CBS series filmed in Hawaii. He played Isaac in Season 5, Episode 4 of Hawaii Five-0 in 2014. He also appeared as Manu Saluni in two episodes of Magnum P.I. in 2018 and 2019.
David Hekili Kenui Bell was also set to appear in the upcoming Amazon MGM Studios film The Wrecking Crew. This action-comedy project is currently in post-production and features prominent actors like Dave Bautista and Jason Momoa. His IMDb Pro page listed his involvement, indicating his continued work in the film industry.
In addition to his on-screen work, Bell was deeply involved in voiceovers and his local Hawaiian community. His sister highlighted his passion for voice acting. His voice can be heard over the public address (PA) system at Kona Airport in Hawaii. He loved working there to ensure an excellent and safe customer experience for passengers.
David was also active as a brand ambassador for Kona Brewing Company. His sister described his unique ability to deliver lines with a blend of English understanding, Indigenous knowledge, and “Pidgen to da Max,” calling him “a diamond in the rough.” He attended Kalani High School and Punahou School. According to his Facebook page, he lived in Waimea before his death and worked as an assistant airport superintendent at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole.
Jalene Kanani Bell shared a touching tribute on Facebook, describing her brother as “sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant, and handsome.” She spoke of their bond, stating that she met him when she was 18 on her high school graduation day, calling it “the most amazing surprise.” She added that David provided her with “all the unconditional love I could possibly ask for.”
Bell’s agent, Lashauna Downie, also shared her thoughts, stating, “It is really heartbreaking. David was not only a great artist, but he lived the spirit of ‘Aloha’ in the true sense – gentle and affectionate.” The official cause of David Hekili Kenui Bell’s death has not been made public at this time. Hawai’i police have confirmed his passing and stated that an inquest investigation is standard practice, with no foul play suspected.
The actor’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, friends, and colleagues across social media. Many have expressed deep sadness over the loss of a talent who brought the spirit of Hawaii to his roles and community. His contributions to entertainment and his local community will be remembered.
Also Read: Disney’s Live-Action Lilo & Stitch (2025): Full List of Cast and Characters; See Who Plays Who
