Goodbye to ‘Lilo & Stitch’ actor dead at 46: Cause of death of David Hekili Kenui Bell

One of the actors in the new live-action version of ‘Lilo & Stitch’ has passed away just weeks after the movie’s release, a family member has confirmed.

Hawaiian actor David Hekili Kenui Bell had got his first break in a major movie when he made an appearance in the 2025 film. The 46-year-old’s character was billed as ‘Big Hawaiian Dude’ and it was a significant step forward in Bell’s fledgling career in Hollywood.

‘Lilo & Stitch’ opened to a very impressive opening numbers, taking in $37 million on Memorial Day alone. It was the fourth highest-grossing Monday in US history. Over the weekend sister Jolene Kahani Bell announced his death and paid tribute to her brother.

“It is with a heavy heart I share that my sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant and handsome little brother David H. K. Bell will spend today in the company of our Heavenly Father,” she said.

“I’ve been waiting for the words and mindset to properly express the joy of a human, and Prince of a Man he was, but fate pushed my hand this morning by a pre-scheduled Father’s Day newsletter honoring the men in our lives.”

Bell had previously worked on ‘The Wrecking Crew’, ‘Hawaii Five-0′ and ‘Magnum P.I.’ but the new Disney offering was his first feature length film. This achievement was one that his sister celebrated in here written tribute to Bell.

“He recently made it on to the big screen with an iconic Lilo & Stitch moment,” she explained. “He planned ahead and purchased the best seats in the house for us all to go together to opening night in Kapolei just two short weeks ago.”

“David brought light, kindness, and a beautiful spirit to all who had the privilege of knowing him,” wrote Lashauna Downie, owner of his Bliss Models and Talent management agency. “He will be profoundly missed by everyone whose lives he touched.”

No cause of death has so far been released for David Hekili Kenui Bell.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.