David Hekili Kenui Bell, the actor who described himself as the “Shave Ice Guy” from the “Lilo & Stitch” live-action film, has died at age 46.
His death was confirmed by his rep, Lashauna Downie, in a statement to TODAY.com on June 17.
“Aloha, It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of David H. K. Bell — an extraordinary talent and a deeply cherished member of our BLISS ʻOhana (family),” the statement begins. “David brought light, kindness, and a beautiful spirit to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be profoundly missed by everyone whose lives he touched.”
“We extend our deepest sympathies to his ʻohana during this incredibly difficult time and are honoring their privacy as they grieve. Rest in love, dear David,” the statement continues. “Your legacy and aloha spirit will live on in the hearts of all of us. A hui hou — until we meet again. Mahalo.”
No cause of death has been shared at this time.
Bell was from the Kaimuki neighborhood of Honolulu, Hawaii, according to his IMDB. His other acting credits include an episode of “Hawaii Five-0” and appearances on “Magnum P.I.” His final project, the action-comedy “The Wrecking Crew” with Jason Momoa and David Bautista, is currently in post-production.
Back in May, Bell shared video from his audition for “Lilo & Stitch,” as well as some additional photos from the set.
“My audition had some special effects 🤣 I’m pretty sure that’s what did it,” he captioned the post. “Also some random stuff.”
His comments section were filled with congratulatory messages and praising him for his fun role.
“Lilo & Stitch” premiered on May 23, and to celebrate, his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, wrote on her social media that he “planned ahead and purchased the best seats in the house for us all to go together to opening night in Kapolei.”
She said she suggested getting shaved ice after the movie to reenact the scene, “But then realized the store was already closed.
“To celebrate him and try to ease our grief we went to get shave ice,” she wrote, adding, “Hug your loved ones today…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. Blessed by this and all the big and small moments, I will keep our memories alive in my heart, words and actions.”
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