Lilo & Stitch actor dies weeks after film premiere
Actor David Hekili Kenui Bell, who appeared in the live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, has died.
Mr Bell's sister Jalene Kanani Bell shared the devastating news in a touching statement posted to Facebook on Sunday.
'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.
'He was and will remain a bright and shining star. He recently made it onto the big screen with an iconic Lilo & Stitch moment.'
The Disney live-action remake premiered on May 23.
Ms Bell said her brother proudly took their family to the opening night in Kapolei, Hawaii.
'He planned ahead and purchased the best seats in the house for us all to go together to opening night in Kapolei just two short weeks ago,' she added. Lilo & Stitch premiered on May 23. Credit: Disney
'We talked about and were so energised by the fans dressed in L&S gear head to toe.'
Mr Bell's cause of death was not shared.
He also appeared in episodes of the Hawaii-set shows Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I. , in addition to commercials for Kona Brewing.
Alongside acting, Ms Bell said he loved doing voice-overs.
'You can hear him over the PA system on arrival at Kona Airport where he loved working to create an awesome and safe customer experience.'
Ending her statement, Ms Bell vowed to keep the memories with her brother alive.
'Hug your loved ones today ... our last time together after returning home from the movie was just sitting on my living room couch talking 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.'
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