Movie star and former sumo wrestler Taylor Wily’s sudden death has devastated fans and his co-stars from around the world.
The 56-year-old passed away suddenly, with no confirmation on what Taylor Wily’s cause of death is at this stage. The TV star’s passing was confirmed by friend and Island News host, Lina Girl, over the weekend. She paid tribute to the sumo wrestler, who eventually transitioned into the movie business. He sadly joins the list of television actors who we’ve had to say goodbye to this year, but his legacy will not be forgotten.
Goodbye ‘Big T’
In a segment on the latest edition of the show, Lina told viewers: “It’s with heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of a Hawaii celebrity who is also a family friend.
“Taylor Wily, former sumo wrestler, MMA fighter and actor, passed away today in Hurricane, Utah.
“A lot of people know him from his acting roles in Forgetting Sarah Marshall and as Kamekona Tupuola in Hawaii Five-O, but for our family, he’s one of my mom’s boys, and my husband Sam’s childhood friend.
“He was – and always will be – our big T.”
Her co-star also chimed in: “One of the most kindest, gentlest souls.”
Lina also mentioned that appearances were not reality.
“He would look physically menacing until you just folded right into a hug,” Girl added. “My heart is breaking.”
Hawaii Five-O’s creator, writer and producer, Peter M Lenkov, penned a tribute after Taylor Wily’s death. He shared a throwback picture from the set.
“I am devastated,” he said. “Heartbroken. I’ll post some detailed feelings later. Just too hard right now.”
Peter shared a follow-up video montage, and wrote: “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.
“PS: when we spoke last week, we laughed at how right you were from Day 1. Five-0 was our dream job. And I was so lucky we got to share that magic together.”
Wrestling to wrestling scripts
Taylor Wily, born in Hawaii, first found fame when he became a big deal in sumo wrestling in 1987.
After winning several fights, he was forced to retire over sustained injuries, so he moved over to pro wrestling. He only undertook one MMA fight in 1993, but then transitioned into Hollywood.
The celebrity was cast as Kemo in Forgetting Sarah Marshall, the 2008 comedy from Jason Segel that was semi-autobiographical.
Two years later, he made his TV debut in the Hawaii Five-O reboot, playing Kamekona, who was a reformed businessman.
He starred in more than 170 episodes of the hit show, appearing in all 10 seasons.
He is survived by his wife and their two children.
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Tributes from fans pour in after Taylor Wily’s death
Fans have paid tribute to the star since learning of his death, with one co-star of Taylor Wily reminiscing about their time on set.
Sam Puefua said: “Got to work with a great man who had a heart of gold. Pleasure to play your brother on the small scene, but I’m more blessed to have gotten to known you. Thank you Taylor Wily for all your words of encouragement throughout the years of knowing you. Manuia lau Malaga Big Tee”.
Another wrote: “Rest in Peace Taylor Wily. He passed away today at the age of 56. Kamekona you will be missed.”
And someone else penned: “I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Taylor Wily. Taylor participated in the first UFC. He faced Gerard Gordeau in the opening match. He was primarily known for his acting career, particularly his role on “Hawaii Five-0.” My condolences go out to his family.”
Taylor Wily will no doubt join other Hollywood celebrities who’ve died this year but had a lasting impact on their fans.
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