Taylor Wily an American actor, comedian, and former sumo wrestler has died. The actor passed away on June 20, he was 56. He is best known for his role as Kamekona Tupuola on the television series “Hawaii Five-0.”
No further details about his death have been reported yet.
Born Teila Tuli on June 14, 1968, in Honolulu, Hawaii, he started his career as a sumo wrestler before transitioning into acting. The actor was of American Samoan descent.
Taylor Wily began his career in sumo wrestling in Japan under the name Takamishu. He joined a sumo stable and made his debut in 1987. His sumo career was brief. He had to retire from the sport in 1989 due to knee injuries.
After his sumo wrestling career, Wily transitioned into acting. He gained popularity for his recurring role as Kamekona Tupuola, a lovable and resourceful helicopter pilot and shrimp truck owner, on the CBS television series “Hawaii Five-0,” which aired from 2010 to 2020.
In addition to “Hawaii Five-0,” Wily has appeared in various films and TV shows, including “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” and “North Shore.”
Television producer Peter M. Lenkov took to Instagram to share the sad news of Wily’s death. He posted a photo with him and Wily. He said:
“I am devastated. Heartbroken. I’ll post some detailed feelings later. Just too hard right now,” Lenkov then added a second post with several photos.
Wily leaves behind his wife Halona and their two children
Rest In Peace.
