Actor Taylor Wily Passes Away at 56: Remembering Kamekona from Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I.

Actor Taylor Wily, famous for his role as Kamekona Tupuola in Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I., has passed away at 56 in Hurricane, Utah. Lina Girl Langi, a close friend of Wily's family, announced his death on Island Life Live on June 20. Langi described Wily as a gentle soul despite his intimidating build and did not disclose the cause of death.

Wily started his career as a sumo wrestler in Honolulu before transitioning to acting. He competed in the first-ever UFC in 1993, facing Gerard Gordeau in a match that led to his retirement from MMA. He is survived by his wife Halona and two children. Peter M. Lenkov, the producer of Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I., paid tribute to Wily in an emotional Instagram post, expressing his devastation at the loss.

Known for his role as Kamekona in Hawaii Five-0, Wily appeared in 171 episodes over a decade and seven episodes of Magnum P.I. His acting career included roles in MacGyver, One West Waikiki, North Shore, as well as appearances in films like Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Fans and friends shared their condolences on social media, with Dennis Chun, who played Sgt. Duke Lukela on Hawaii Five-0, calling Wily a "gentle giant" and expressing his sadness at the news.

Wily's death marks the loss of a beloved actor and athlete who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. His legacy as Kamekona in Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I. will be remembered by fans worldwide. The outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues and friends reflects the profound impact Wily had on those around him. His contributions to television and sports will not be forgotten, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.

In the wake of his passing, the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented actor and kind-hearted individual. Taylor Wily's legacy as Kamekona in Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I. will forever be cherished by fans and colleagues alike. His remarkable journey from a sumo wrestler to a successful actor has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Rest in peace, Taylor Wily, you will be deeply missed but never forgotten.