
American actor David Hekili Kenui Bell has died at the age of 46 on June 12, 2025, just a few weeks after his first appearance on the big screen in the live-action version of Disney's "Lilo & Stitch."
The sad news was announced by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, through an emotional post on the social network Facebook, where she described the deceased as a loving, talented man with a great soul.
The actor's death has also been confirmed by Hawaii police, who explained that an autopsy is planned to determine the exact cause of death, although no criminal act is suspected.
“We have launched a coroner’s investigation, as is standard practice, and an autopsy is planned,” a police spokesperson told People magazine. “The investigation is ongoing, but there is no suspicion of any foul play.”
The sudden loss comes just a short time after Bell's debut in Disney's highly anticipated film, "Lilo & Stitch," released on May 23, where he had a small but significant role in an iconic moment in the film.
According to his sister, Bell had enthusiastically organized the family's attendance at the film premiere in Kapolei, purchasing the best seats in advance to share the moment with relatives.
His representative, Lashauna Downie, in a statement to TMZ, expressed deep sorrow: "He was one of my greatest talents and embodied the true meaning of 'aloha' - a gentle giant."
David Bell was described by his family as a lively person who loved acting, voice acting and the arts. He was also a well-known figure in the Hawai'i community, where he also contributed to the Kona Airport welcome systems.