David Hekili Kenui Bell, who appeared in Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch, has died at the age of 46.
Hawaii police confirmed Bell passed away on June 12 at 2:26 p.m. No foul play is suspected. An autopsy will be conducted as part of a standard coroner’s inquest, according to a police spokesperson.
The news was first reported by TMZ and later confirmed by Bell’s family and sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, in a Facebook post on June 15.
In her statement, Jalene remembered David as “sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant and handsome.” She called him “a joy of a human and Prince of a Man.”
Their sibling bond began unexpectedly. Jalene met her brother for the first time when she was 18, on her high school graduation day. “That gift has lasted a lifetime,” she wrote.
A Joyful Celebration Just Weeks Before
The live-action of Lilo & Stitch premiered on May 23rd. Two weeks before his death, David celebrated the release with his family in Kapolei.
“He planned ahead and purchased the best seats in the house,” Jalene wrote. Fans dressed in themed outfits filled the theater, and afterward the family hoped to get shave ice to recreate a scene from the film. The shop had closed. So instead, they made time for it later to honor his memory.
One photo from that evening, reposted by Fandango, showed David smiling with a cup of shave ice. “Thanks Fandango! I think?” he commented on May 30.
A Familiar Voice in Hawaii
Beyond acting, David was known for his voice work at Kona Airport, where his warm announcements welcomed travelers.
“He loved making people feel safe and happy,” Jalene wrote. “That was always his goal.”
His agent, Lashauna Downie, described him as “a gentle giant” and someone who “embodied the true meaning of aloha.”
David also appeared in episodes of Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I., and in local commercials, including for Kona Brewing.
Final Moments Remembered
Jalene recalled their last evening together. They sat on her living room couch, talking about life, sipping seltzer, and tracing family history.
“Hug your loved ones today,” she wrote.
Bell’s family will keep sharing his memories, including posts he cherished. To many, he remains a voice, a smile, and a lasting presence.
