Taylor Wily, 'Hawaii Five-0' actor and former sumo wrestler, dies at 56

Taylor Wily, known for his role as Kamekona Tupuola on 'Hawaii Five-0' and for his past in sumo wrestling has died.


Pop Culture & Art June 22, 2024
Photo: Reuters

Taylor Wily, the actor who brought the character Kamekona Tupuola to life on the rebooted "Hawaii Five-0," has died at the age of 56. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.

The news was confirmed by local Hawaiian news station KITV and "Hawaii Five-0" executive producer Peter M. Lenkov. Lenkov expressed his grief and shared fond memories of Wily on Instagram, emphasizing the actor's impactful presence on both the show and in his personal life.

Wily was a beloved figure on "Hawaii Five-0," appearing in 171 episodes. He also reprised his role as Kamekona in episodes of other rebooted series like "MacGyver" and "Magnum P.I."

Born Teila Tuli in Honolulu, Hawaii, Wily had a diverse career before acting. He was a former sumo wrestler, UFC, and MMA fighter, known for his imposing 450-pound physique.

Wily is survived by his wife, Halona, and their two children. 

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