Lilo & Stitch star dies aged 46 as sister delivers heartbreaking statement after ‘talented’ actor’s death
David Hekili Kenui Bell, who recently appeared in Disney’s live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, has died at the age of 46 – less than a month after the film’s release.
Bell passed away on June 12, though an official cause of death has not yet been determined.
In the adaptation of the beloved 2002 animated classic, Bell portrayed the character known for dropping his shaved ice in shock after witnessing Jumba open a portal to the island.
His sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, shared the heartbreaking news in a Facebook post, 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.”
In her tribute, Jalene described her brother as “a joy of a human” who had a deep passion for performance and storytelling.
“David loved being an actor, doing voiceovers, spending time with Brutus, travelling as an ambassador for Kona Brew. The film industry and entertainment was so exciting to him, and I loved that he enjoyed the arts.”
She spoke proudly of his background and versatility as a performer, adding:
“He went to Punahou and Kalani while our dad spoke Hawaiian, so his ability to deliver lines with English understanding, Indigenous knowledge, and Pidgin to da max… made him a diamond in the rough.”
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Bell was also a familiar voice to many travelers, as Jalene noted:
“You can hear him over the PA system on arrival at Kona Airport, where he loved working to create an awesome and safe customer experience. He was and will remain a bright and shining star.”
Reflecting on the family’s joy watching Lilo & Stitch together on opening night, Jalene wrote: “We talked about and were so energized by the fans dressed in L&S gear head to toe – t-shirts, onesies, hats, mask – and the merch galore flying off the shelf as we stood in line for popcorn.”
“To celebrate him and try to ease our grief, we went to get shave ice, and my grandson’s emotion was on point.”
Hawai’i police confirmed Bell’s passing to People, stating that an inquest has been opened.
“An autopsy is being scheduled to determine the exact cause of death. The investigation is ongoing at this time. No foul play is suspected,” a spokesperson said.
Beyond Lilo & Stitch, Bell also made appearances in hit shows like Magnum PI and Hawaii Five-O.
According to his IMDb page, he was set to appear in the upcoming film The Wrecking Crew, which is currently in post-production.