Lilo & Stitch Actor David H. K. Bell Dead at 57

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Hollywood is mourning a tragic loss. 

David H. K. Bell, who graced one of the most cherished moments in the 2025 live-action adaptation of ‘Lilo & Stitch’, has sadly passed away. His family announced this news through their social media accounts. He was 57 years old.

In a heartfelt message posted on Facebook on June 16th, Jalene Kanani Bell sadly announced that her remarkable, loving, gifted, humorous, intelligent, and handsome younger brother David H. K. Bell will be spending today with our Heavenly Father. She’s been trying to find the right words to convey the incredible human being and exceptional man he was, but a pre-arranged Father’s Day newsletter about the men in our lives prompted her to share this tribute earlier than planned.

David’s sibling went on to reflect on his legacy, both in his career and his personal life. 

Jalene went on to say, “Though I didn’t have a father figure in my childhood, David provided an abundance of unconditional love that I could never tire of asking for. I firmly believe that every member of his family and friends felt the same from him.” She added, “David was always bursting with pride when it came to me, his nieces, and his grandnephew. He was always eager and creative in organizing fun gatherings and activities for us.

Observing that her sibling, who had acted in both Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-0, described the film industry as “thrilling,” she went on to say, “David cherished his acting career, enjoyed voiceover work, and relished traveling with Brutus as an ambassador for Kona Brew.

In reality, Jalene explained that David purchased tickets for his entire family to watch him on the silver screen when he appeared as Big Hawaiian Dude, who humorously spills his shave ice dessert at the beach in the movie Lilo & Stitch, which premiered in cinemas a month ago.

Two weeks ago, he had thoughtfully bought the finest seats for us to attend the premiere in Kapolei together. This was a quality we didn’t have in common – foresight. We were both thrilled by the sea of fans adorning themselves in L&S clothing, from t-shirts and onesies to hats and masks, and the merchandise flying off the shelves as we waited in line for popcorn.

Closing out her message, Jalene urged others to “hug your loved ones today.”

After watching a movie and coming back home, we found ourselves cozied up on my living room couch, sharing tales about life over a refreshing seltzer and delving into a bit of family history. Such simple yet profound moments like these are truly cherished, and I am grateful for every one of them. I will ensure our memories continue to thrive.

Besides Jalene, David also leaves behind his aunt Gerry, as well as his sisters Kehau Bell and Lara Leimana.

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2025-06-17 06:17