Former UFC fighter and Hawaiian actor Taylor Wily passes away at 56

Former UFC 1 star dies at 56

Taylor Wily was a man of many talents who transitioned from the sumo wrestling ring and UFC octagon to the television screen. He has passed away at the age of 56. Honolulu’s KITV4 Island News was the first to report on his passing, which was later confirmed by his manager, Michael Henderson, to many media houses.

Wily first made a name for himself in the world of sumo wrestling before becoming one of the pioneering figures in the UFC before he had to leave the sport due to his knee problems in 1989. However, his charm and versatility truly shone in his acting career. He gained widespread fame portraying Kamekona, the lovable entrepreneur and informant, on the CBS revival of “Hawaii Five-0.”

Over ten seasons, Wily’s character ran Waiola Shave Ice, Kamekona’s Shrimp Truck, and Kamekona’s Helicopter Tours, becoming a beloved fixture on the show from its premiere in 2010 until it concluded in 2020.

How did Taylor Wily die?

Wily was born in Teila Tuli. He died on Thursday of natural causes. His manager confirmed the news on Friday, causing a wave of anguish among fans and colleagues who loved his work and personality. His family prefers to keep his death quiet, thus nothing is known about it, however, he died of natural causes, as previously stated. Local news outlet KITV stated that Wily died in Hurricane, Utah.

“Hawaii Five-0” Family pays a heartfelt tribute to the man

The showrunner of “Hawaii Five-0,” Peter M. Lenkov, conveyed his great grief in a poignant Instagram post. “I am devastated. Heartbroken. I’ll post some detailed feelings later. Just too hard right now,” he wrote, alongside a photo of the two of them.

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A post shared by Peter M. Lenkov (@plenkov)

In another post filled with photos of Wily throughout the years, Lenkov recalled their first meeting: “T, as I told you many times, I fell in love with you at the first audition. You came in with a towel on your head mopping up sweat, and I was smitten. You charmed me into making you a regular… on the show… and in my life. You were family. And I will miss you every day, brother.” He said that their latest talk was full of laughing, as they reminisced about how “Five-0 was our dream job” and the pleasure they had while working together.

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A post shared by Peter M. Lenkov (@plenkov)

Wily’s skill went beyond “Hawaii Five-0.” He made multiple crossover appearances as Kamekona in the first two seasons of “Magnum P.I.,” solidifying his spot in the hearts of television viewers. His acting abilities were also demonstrated in the 2008 romantic comedy “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” when he portrayed Kemo, a hotel worker and confidant of Jason Segel’s character, Peter Bretter.

Wily’s sister posts a video of her and her brother playing ball

Wily’s family, lead by his sister Alyssa, paid homage to him in a video on Facebook. The movie shows the family playing ball sports and board games, honoring Wily’s life in a way he would have appreciated. “Mourning and celebrating our favorite brother and uncle the way he would want us to,” Alyssa left a message. “Family, Food, Music and Good Vibes. Aurrrrrrighhhhh (in his voice).”

Taylor Wily creates a legacy of fun, kindness, and memorable performances. His transition from sumo wrestling to UFC fighting, and finally to become a beloved actor. As accolades from fans and colleagues continue to flow in, it is evident that Wily’s influence in both the sports and entertainment sectors will be remembered fondly.

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