By Vinod Ram 
David Hekili Kenui Bell was more than a background actor—he was a vibrant ambassador of Hawaiian spirit whose sudden passing on June 15, 2025, at age 57 has resonated deeply within his ʻohana and beyond.
Source: unilad.com
From Kaimuki to the Silver Screen
- Raised in Kaimuki, Honolulu, Bell attended Punahou and Kalani High Schools before launching into a dynamic career that blended performance with cultural pride.
- Breaking into acting with guest roles on Hawaii Five‑0 (“Issac”, 2014, CBS) and Magnum P.I. (“Manu Saluni”, 2018–19), he brought authentic Hawaiian presence to mainstream TV.
Signature Roles & Voice Work
- In Disney’s May 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch, Bell stole the scene—as the playful “Big Hawaiian Dude” dropping shaved ice, he added warmth and charm that endeared him to both locals and international audiences.
- A member of SAG, he publicly honored the film’s Hawaiian production crew, expressing pride in contributing to authentic storytelling.
Behind the Mic & Behind the Scenes
- Off-screen, Bell served as assistant superintendent at Kona International Airport and his cheerful voice greeted travelers daily over the PA system—a role he treasured.
- His voice-over résumé spanned commercials for Kona Brewing, Volcano Bay, UHA Health Insurance, Waiākea Water, Olu Kai, and others, showcasing his versatile vocal talent across national and Hawaii-region campaigns.
Achievements & Recognition
- Bell’s multifaceted career included:
- TV drama credits on CBS’s Hawaii Five‑0 and Magnum P.I.
- Memorable feature-film role in blockbuster Lilo & Stitch (May 2025)
- Notable local and national voice-over work for major brands and broadcast announcements
- Advocacy for cultural representation, blending English, Pidgin, and Indigenous Hawaiian in both private and public spheres
- Active member of Screen Actors Guild, proudly representing Hawaii’s artistic community.
Pending Projects & Lasting Legacy
- Bell was slated to appear in the upcoming film The Wrecking Crew, alongside Jason Momoa and Morena Baccarin—a promising project now tinged with poignancy.
- More than an actor, he was an inspiration: an advocate for local talent whose work elevated Hawaii’s cultural narrative on the global stage.
Conclusion
David Hekili Kenui Bell embodied aloha—a man whose deep roots, generosity, and talent bridged his home community and the world of entertainment. His departure leaves a void, but his legacy—rooted in warmth, cultural pride, and authentic representation—will continue to inspire. From airport terminals to movie theaters, his voice and spirit will echo in the hearts of many.
