Actor David H. K. Bell Dies Weeks After ‘Lilo & Stitch’ Debut
David Hekili Kenui Bell, who worked under the name David H. K. Bell, died on June 12 in Hawaii at age 46. Authorities ruled out foul play. However, a coroner’s inquest and autopsy will determine the cause of death.
Just weeks earlier, Bell had celebrated his first major film role. He portrayed the “Big Hawaiian Dude,” also known as the “shave ice guy,” in Disney’s live-action “Lilo & Stitch,” which premiered on May 23, 2025. He joined his family at the opening night screening in Kapolei.
Bell built his career with work in popular TV shows. He appeared in “Hawaii Five-0” in 2014 and held roles in “Magnum P.I.” from 2018 to 2019. He also recorded voice announcements for Kona International Airport. Most recently, he joined the cast of “The Wrecking Crew,” a film starring Jason Momoa and Morena Baccarin.
- Date of death: June 12, 2025
- Age: 46
- Role in “Lilo & Stitch” (2025)
- Appeared on “Hawaii Five-0” and “Magnum P.I.”
- Voiced announcements at Kona Airport
- Cast in “The Wrecking Crew”
His sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, wrote 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.”
Bell’s agent, Lashauna Downie, called him a “gentle giant” and said he lived with the spirit of aloha.
Bell’s death followed a personal milestone. His performance in “Lilo & Stitch” marked a high point in his career and gave audiences a glimpse of his talent.
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