The star had recently watched his latest film role light up the big screen alongside his family. Now, fans and loved ones are grappling with unexpected news that has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a time of celebration.
David Hekili Kenui Bell, the actor recognized for his recent role in Disney’s live-action “Lilo & Stitch,” has passed away.
The news of his death was shared on June 16, 2025, by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, in an emotional Facebook post. “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,” penned Jalene.
“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,” she expressed.
Hawaii police confirmed that David died on June 12 at 2:26 p.m. Authorities have launched a coroner’s inquest investigation, and an autopsy is being scheduled to determine the exact cause of death, according to a police spokesperson. “No foul play is suspected,” the statement said, even though the investigation remains ongoing.
David’s passing at 46 caught even those close to him by surprise. His representative, Lashauna Downie, told TMZ, “I am learning like you through social media. This is heartbreaking & sad. He was one of my best talent & embodied the true meaning of aloha … a gentle giant.”
David gained attention for portraying the character Big Hawaiian Dude in “Lilo & Stitch” (2025), a nod to the Ice Cream Man — a recurring gag from the original animated series, where the character frequently drops his ice cream before getting a bite.
In the movie’s trailer, David’s character is seen dropping his shaved ice after seeing characters Jumba and Pleakley open a portal to the island. The film tells the story of a lonely Hawaiian girl who befriends a runaway alien, helping to mend her fragmented family.
Two weeks before his death, on May 28, 2025, David posted a video of his audition tape for the role, along with behind-the-scenes photos from the film’s set.
He also bought premiere tickets for his family and attended the opening night screening of “Lilo & Stitch” in Kapolei, which he planned himself. His sister even joked that planning ahead was “one trait” they didn’t share.
Jalene remembered their joy watching fans in full Lilo & Stitch-themed gear, including t-shirts, onesies, hats, and masks, while merchandise flew off the shelves.
After the movie, they considered reenacting the ice cream scene by getting shaved ice, but the store had closed. Later, they did so to honor his memory, a gesture her grandson found deeply emotional.
David was also known for roles in “Hawaii Five-O,” “The Wrecking Crew,” and “Magnum P.I.” (2018). Off-screen, he lent his voice to various projects and worked at Kona Airport, where he proudly ensured a safe and pleasant experience for travelers through announcements over the PA system.
Born and raised in Hawaii, David attended Punahou School and Kalani High School. His sister mentioned that their father spoke Hawaiian, giving David an edge in combining English fluency, Indigenous cultural knowledge, and Pidgin — a skill she described as making him a “diamond in the rough.”
Jalene described meeting David for the first time at 18, during her high school graduation, calling it “the most amazing surprise” arranged by their mothers.
“While I didn’t grow up with a Father, David gave me all the unconditional love I could possibly ask for and I believe that all his family and friends received the same from him,” expressed Jalene.
David was particularly proud of his nieces and grandnephew, often organizing family activities and expressing excitement about attending Tatihi and the Lindsey reunion to deepen family ties.
He enjoyed working as an ambassador for Kona Brew and embraced the excitement of the film and entertainment industry.
Jalene noted that David “loved being an actor, doing voiceovers, spending time with Brutus traveling,” and that his passion for the arts was something she always admired.
She extended her gratitude to Aunty Gerry and the Kenui ‘Ohana, writing, “You raised an amazing human who became the most loving and supportive man in my life and I am eternally grateful.”
She also acknowledged her siblings, saying she shared her grief with older sister Kehau Bell and younger sister Lara Leimana, who, while not a David by name, “loved and adored him as her own.”
She mentioned plans to reshare some of David’s favorite social media posts, many of which she only discovered after his passing.
Their final time together was spent on her living room couch, “talking story about life, having a seltzer and doing a little genealogy [sic].” She described herself as blessed by all the big and small moments they shared.
As tributes continue to pour in, David is remembered not only for his growing presence on screen but also for his vibrant personality, deep family ties, and love for his Hawaiian roots. His impact resonates through his performances, public service, and cherished memories with those who knew him.