Actor David H. K. Bell Dies at 46 After Role in ‘Lilo & Stitch’
David Hekili Kenui Bell, known professionally as David H. K. Bell, died on June 12 in Hawaii. He was 46. Police ruled out foul play, but investigators continue to examine the cause of death through a coroner’s inquest and autopsy.
Just weeks earlier, Bell had stepped into his first major film role. He appeared in Disney’s live-action “Lilo & Stitch,” playing the “Big Hawaiian Dude,” also known as the “shave ice guy.” The film premiered on May 23, 2025, and Bell joined his family for the opening night in Kapolei.
In addition to his film debut, Bell worked in television. He acted in episodes of “Hawaii Five-0” and “Magnum P.I.” He also recorded voice announcements used at Kona International Airport. More recently, he joined the cast of “The Wrecking Crew,” a film featuring Jason Momoa and Morena Baccarin
- Date of death: June 12, 2025
- Age: 46
- Role in Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” (2025)
- TV credits: “Hawaii Five-0,” “Magnum P.I.”
- Voice announcements at Kona Airport
- Cast in “The Wrecking Crew”
His sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, shared the news on Facebook: “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.”
Meanwhile, his agent, Lashauna Downie, described him as a “gentle giant” who lived with aloha in both his life and work.
Ultimately, Bell’s death followed a high point in his career. He brought joy to audiences and left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
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