‘Lilo & Stitch’ Actor David Hekili Kenui Bell Passes Away at 57
At the age of 57, Hawaiian actor David Hekili Kenui Bell passed away on June 12, 2025; the entertainment industry is in mourning for him. Known as the “Big Hawaiian Dude,” or the “shave ice guy,” Bell’s untimely death has devastated fans and loved ones on Disney’s live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch..
Recently Celebrated Disney Debut
David Hekili Kenui Bell had just lately marked his Disney debut. He visited the Lilo & Stitch premiere in Kapolei with his family two weeks before his passing. His sister Jalene Kanani Bell claims he had ahead, making sure his loved ones could enjoy the occasion together from the best seats. When Jalene thought back on that evening, she remembered the lively scene dotted with head-to fit Lilo & Stitch gear including T-shirts, onesies, caps, and masks. “The energy from the fans was amazing,” she said, remembering how much her brother delighted in seeing the fervor of the devoted franchise.
Cause of Death Not Disclosed
Authorities have confirmed that David’s death is not being treated as suspicious, but no official cause of death has been disclosed. His sister announced the tragic news on social media, writing, “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.”
David Hekili Kenui Bell recently made his Disney debut. Two weeks before he died, he and his family went to the Lilo & Stitch premiere in Kapolei. According to his sister Jalene Kanani Bell, he had ahead so his loved ones could celebrate the occasion from the best seats together. When Jalene reflected on that evening, she recalled the vibrant scene dotted with head-to- fit Lilo & Stitch gear including T-shirts, onesies, caps, and masks. “The energy from the fans was amazing,” she said, remembering how much her brother delighted in seeing the fervor of the devoted franchise.
In addition to his acting career, Bell lent his voice to Kona International Airport, where he worked to create a welcoming and safe experience for travelers. His sister proudly shared that his voice remains a lasting presence at the airport, a testament to his enduring impact on the community.
As fans continue to celebrate the success of Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch, which has already grossed over $850 million worldwide, they also honor the life of David Hekili Kenui Bell. His talent, warmth, and joyful spirit touched many, and his legacy will remain alive both on screen and in the hearts of those who knew him.
