Taylor Wily, who first gained fame in the sumo wrestling world before transitioning to a successful acting career, has passed away at the age of 56. The American Samoan actor was well-known for his role in the CBS reboot of Hawaii Five-O, as well as his memorable appearance in the comedy film Forgetting Sarah Marshall. His death was confirmed this week by a local ABC News affiliate in Hawaii.
Wily’s passing on June 20 was verified by TV producer Peter M. Lenkov, the executive producer of the Hawaii Five-O reboot. The show, which premiered in 2010, ran for a decade and was a significant hit. In the series, Wily portrayed Kamekona Tupuola, a shrimp truck owner and informant for the Five-0 Task Force. Lenkov expressed his shock and sorrow over Wily’s death, sharing heartfelt messages on Instagram.
Heartfelt Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
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“I am devastated. Heartbroken. I’ll post some detailed feelings later. Just too hard right now,” Lenkov wrote in an initial post.
Later, he shared more about his bond with Wily, saying,
“T, as I told you many times, I fell in love with you at the first audition. 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.”
Lenkov reminisced about their last conversation, highlighting the shared joy and magic of working on Hawaii Five-O. “Five-0 was our dream job. And I was so lucky we got to share that magic together,” he concluded.
From Sumo Wrestling to Hollywood Stardom
Hailing from Laie, Hawaii, Wily began his career in sumo wrestling. Standing 6’2” and weighing 450 pounds, he was recruited in 1987 into the Azumazeki stable of sumo in Japan. Wrestling under the name Takamikuni, he was undefeated in his first 14 matches and became the first foreign-born wrestler to win the championship in the Makushita division. Despite his promising start, knee issues led him to retire from the sport.
Wily transitioned to acting and found success with his decade-long role on Hawaii Five-O. He also appeared as a friendly bartender in Forgetting Sarah Marshall and made an appearance on an episode of The Amazing Race. His transition from sports to acting showcased his versatility and ability to captivate audiences in various arenas.
A Lasting Legacy in Entertainment
Wily’s performances left a lasting impact on both fans and colleagues. His ability to bring characters to life with charm and authenticity made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. His work on Hawaii Five-O and other projects demonstrated his wide-ranging talent and dedication.
Beyond his professional achievements, Wily was known for his warmth and generosity. His friends and family, including his wife Halona and their two children, remember him not only for his career but also for his kind-hearted nature and the joy he brought into their lives.
Remembering Taylor Wily’s Remarkable Life and Legacy
Taylor Wily’s death is a profound loss to the entertainment world, marking the end of a unique and impactful career. His remarkable journey from a celebrated sumo wrestling champion to a cherished actor on Hawaii Five-O and various other shows illustrates a life rich with diverse accomplishments and memorable moments. Wily’s ability to transition so seamlessly between these two very different worlds speaks volumes about his talent and determination.
As fans and colleagues mourn his passing, they also take time to celebrate the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. Wily brought joy and inspiration to many, both through his on-screen performances and his off-screen kindness and warmth. His contributions to entertainment and the lives he touched will be remembered fondly, ensuring that his legacy endures for years to come.
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