David Hekili Kenui Bell, Actor in Lilo & Stitch Live-Action Remake, Dies at 57
David Hekily Kenui Bell, who played the character in Disney’s new live-action film Lilo & Stitch, has died. His sister, Jalen Kanani Bell, shared the news with a touching post on Facebook. She remembered her brother as a kind, funny and loving man. David was 57. His family has not yet shared the cause of death. He passed away just weeks after his first big screen appearance.
A Sister’s Emotional Tribute
Jalen Bell confirmed her brother’s passing in a long and emotional Facebook post on Sunday, June 15. She called David “a joy to be around” and said he was a “prince of a man.” She added that he was sweet, talented, smart and full of life. Her message showed how close they were and how important he was to their family.
Jalen said she met David at the age of 18, on her high school graduation day. It was a surprise she had been waiting for her whole life. She said even though she didn’t grow up with a father, David gave her the love she needed. He gave that same love to many other people in her life.
Two weeks before his death, David had bought the best seats for his family to see the premiere of Lilo & Stitch in Kapolei. After the movie, Jalen joked about getting shave ice and acting out a famous scene from the movie. But the shave ice shop had already closed. Later, in his honor, they still went for shave ice, and his grandson’s reaction shows how much David meant to him.
Who Was David Hackley Bell?
David Bell was 57 years old when he died. He played the role of Shave Ice Man in the live-action Lilo & Stitch, which was released on May 23, 2025. This was his first time acting in a major film. His character was well-liked by fans because he would leave his shave ice in every scene. Even though it was a small role, people watched him and enjoyed his performance.
Prior to this film, David starred in two episodes of Magnum P.I. as Manu Saloni and one episode of Hawaii Five-0 as Isaac. He also worked in a new film, The Wrecking Crew, which is still in post-production and has not yet been released.
David went to Kalaani High School and later attended Hawaii Community College and Kapiolani Community College. He worked as an assistant airport superintendent at the Allison Onizuka Kona International Airport in Keyhole. His sister said he was also the voice greeting passengers on the speakers as they landed at the airport. He took pride in that job and always wanted to make guests feel welcome.
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A Man of Many Talents
David lived in Waimea, Hawaii, and was proud of his roots. His sister said he helped connect people by speaking both Hawaiian and English. He always tried to give passengers a warm and friendly experience. Jalen called him a “diamond in the rough” because he had a unique way of showing people and taking care of them.
He had a passion for acting and was a member of the artists’ union SAG-AFTRA. He also had a passion for voice acting and at one point worked as an ambassador for the Kona Brewing Company. He was full of energy and loved being a part of the entertainment world. On Instagram, he even added “Shave Ice Man” to his bio, showing how proud he was of the role.
After the film’s premiere, David posted online how happy he was to attend the cast and crew screening. He thanked everyone who worked on the film and gave special praise to the local Hawaiian crew, saying they were the real stars in his eyes.
Recalling His Role in Lilo & Stitch
The 2025 live-action version of Lilo & Stitch was a huge success, grossing over $850 million at the box office. Fans loved the film for its heartwarming story and fun characters. David’s role as Shave Ice Man added humor and charm to the film. His character became one of the funniest parts that fans remember and talk about.
Although he only had a few acting credits, David’s role in Lilo & Stitch became a big moment in his life. He enjoyed every moment and shared that joy with everyone around him. His family was so proud to see him on the big screen and celebrate that special night with him. Jalen says he was overwhelmed with excitement when he saw fans in the theater dressed as Lilo & Stitch.
David will also appear in The Wrecking Crew, a film that has not yet been released. Fans will see the role for the last time in a new project.
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A Life That Touched So Many
David Hackley Bell’s life was more than just movies. He was kind, gentle, and full of love. He made a difference at work, in his community, and in his family. People knew him as someone who cared deeply, smiled often, and gave his best in everything he did.
His part in Lilo & Stitch will always be special to fans. But more than that, his story reminds us that everyone has the power to bring joy, whether on film or in everyday life. David’s memory will live on through the smiles he created and the love he gave.
