David H. K. Bell, a beloved Hawaiian actor who recently appeared in the 2025 live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, has passed away at the age of 57, his family confirmed. Bell portrayed the fan-favorite "Big Hawaiian Dude" in one of the film’s most memorable comedic beach scenes.
The news was shared by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, in a heartfelt message posted to Facebook on June 16. In her tribute, Jalene remembered her brother not only for his artistic talents but for the warmth and love he gave his family.
“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,” she wrote. “I’ve been waiting for the words and mindset to properly express the joy of a human, and Prince of a Man he was.”David Hekili Kenui BellJalene reflected on their bond, noting that David filled the role of a father figure in her life. “While I didn’t grow up with a father, David gave me all the unconditional love I could possibly ask for,” she wrote, adding that he brought that same loving spirit to friends, family, and his nieces and grandnephew.
Bell’s passion for performance extended well beyond Lilo & Stitch. His credits included appearances in Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0, and he was an avid voice actor and on-screen personality. His sister shared that he also enjoyed traveling with his dog Brutus, acting as an ambassador for Kona Brewing Company.
David was thrilled to be part of the Lilo & Stitch project, a major cinematic moment for him. He proudly arranged for his entire family to attend the premiere in Kapolei just two weeks before his passing.
“He planned ahead and purchased the best seats in the house for us all to go together to opening night,” Jalene wrote, describing how fans filled the theater in themed outfits and merch, making the event even more meaningful for David.
In her tribute, she encouraged others to cherish their loved ones while they have the chance.
“Our last time together after returning home from the movie was just sitting on my living room couch talking story about life, having a seltzer, and doing a little genealogy,” she shared. “Blessed by this and all the big and small moments, I will keep our memories alive.”
David H. K. Bell is survived by his sisters Jalene, Kehau Bell, and Lara Leimana, as well as his aunt Gerry. His legacy lives on not only through his on-screen performances but through the lives he touched with his generous spirit and enduring aloha.
