Wily appeared on 171 episodes of “Hawaii Five-0” as Kamekona Tupuola, and played the role in episodes of other rebooted series such as “Magnum P.I.” and “MacGyver.”
Taylor Wily, best known for his role as Kamekona Tupuola on the reboot of Hawaii Five-0, has passed away at 56 years old. Wily, who had a rich background as a former sumo wrestler, was a beloved figure both in the entertainment world and in Hawaii, where he made his mark on the popular TV series. His portrayal of Kamekona, a character with a larger-than-life personality and heart of gold, endeared him to fans across the globe, making him a standout presence in 171 episodes of the show.
Beyond Hawaii Five-0, Wily also appeared in movies such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall, where his comedic timing and relatable character added depth to the film. He also made guest appearances in reboots like Magnum P.I. and MacGyver, proving his versatility as an actor. His role in these projects helped elevate his status as a notable figure in the entertainment world, despite being relatively low-key compared to other stars.
While Wily’s professional life was widely celebrated, his death on June 20, 2024, has shocked many. The cause of death has yet to be confirmed, but tributes have flooded in from his colleagues, with many recalling his infectious personality and generous spirit. His death marks the loss of a much-loved actor whose work transcended the screen and touched the lives of those who knew him.
Peter M. Lenkov, executive producer of Hawaii Five-0, expressed his grief on social media, saying, “I am devastated. Heartbroken. I’ll post some detailed feelings later. Just too hard right now.” Lenkov’s post included a photo of himself with Wily, offering a glimpse of the close bond they shared. It was clear from his words that Wily’s impact extended far beyond the roles he played on television.
Fans and colleagues alike have shared their tributes, remembering Wily as a warm, engaging person with an enormous heart. Many fondly recall his time on Hawaii Five-0, where his character served as a fan favorite, often bringing humor and warmth to the series. For many, Wily’s presence on the show was one of its highlights, and his absence will undoubtedly be deeply felt by those who enjoyed his work.
Before becoming an actor, Wily was a successful sumo wrestler in Hawaii. He initially gained recognition for his athleticism and presence in the sport, where he achieved notable success. His transition into acting was a natural progression, as his imposing physicality and affable nature made him a perfect fit for television roles. His history as a sumo wrestler added an interesting layer to his on-screen characters, making him stand out in Hollywood.
As tributes continue to pour in for Wily, his legacy as both a sumo wrestler and an actor will live on. Whether on the set of Hawaii Five-0 or in his numerous other appearances, he leaves behind a body of work that reflects his talent, charisma, and deep sense of community. Wily’s passing has left a void, but his contributions to the entertainment world and the friendships he cultivated will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working with him.
