The sudden passing of David Hekili Kenui Bell has left a deep void in the hearts of many, particularly within the Hawaiian community and among those who admired his spirit, talent, and cultural pride. Remembered for his recent appearance in Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch as the reimagined ‘ice cream tourist’ character, Bell brought to life a brief but memorable moment that paid homage to a fan-favorite scene from the original 2002 animated classic. His presence in that film wasn’t just a performance—it was a celebration of his identity and love for his home, something that resonated deeply with fans who saw themselves reflected in his performance.
His sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, lovingly announced his passing on Facebook, painting a portrait of a man who was much more than an actor. She described him as generous, funny, brilliant, and deeply connected to his family. Her tribute recalled their final joyful memory—sharing popcorn and laughs at the Lilo & Stitch premiere in Kapolei—just weeks before his death. That moment, filled with pride and warmth, has now become a bittersweet memory for his loved ones, marking the last time they were all together celebrating something David held dear.
Bell was not only a performer on-screen, having worked on productions like Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0, but he was also a dedicated public servant, lending his voice to travelers as the Assistant Airport Superintendent at Kona Airport. His daily work embodied the spirit of aloha, something echoed by his representative, Lashauna Downie, who called him a “gentle giant” and one of her best talents.
Deeply rooted in his Hawaiian upbringing, Bell attended Kalani High School, Hawaii Community College, and Kapiolani Community College, and his fluency in blending English, Hawaiian, and Pidgin gave him a unique voice both on screen and off. He was a staunch supporter of local talent and frequently used his platform to uplift fellow artists and celebrate the vibrant culture of the islands. His social media was a window into his passion for the arts, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses from sets and expressing his excitement at being part of a film that honored Hawaiian heritage.
His sister spoke of his love for acting, voiceovers, and his travels with his dog Brutus, whom he considered a companion in life and work. She described him as a ‘diamond in the rough,’ a term that perfectly captures the essence of someone raw, real, and incredibly special. His presence in The Wrecking Crew, the upcoming Amazon MGM film with Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista, was another exciting milestone in a career that was still blossoming.
David Hekili Kenui Bell’s passing is a profound loss not just for his family and friends, but for everyone who saw in him the rare ability to balance talent with humility, pride with kindness, and tradition with modernity. He carried his culture not as a costume but as a legacy, and through his work, his voice, and his warmth, he gave the world a glimpse of Hawaii’s soul. His spirit lives on in every frame he appeared in, every announcement he made at the airport, and in the hearts of those he touched.