Beloved Hawaii Five-0 Star And UFC Pioneer Taylor Wily Passes Away At 56

It’s always tough when we have to say goodbye to a beloved star, and the world suffered a collective heartbreak as we bid farewell to a gentle giant this week. 

Taylor Wily, the former UFC fighter renowned for his memorable role as Kamekona Tupuola on CBS's Hawaii Five-0, has passed away at 56. Wily’s sister and family paid a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, sharing a video that perfectly captured the essence of Taylor’s spirit.

The Hawaii-born star left an indelible mark on both the screen and in the hearts of those who knew him. The news of Wily’s death was confirmed by a local KITV Island News reporter who described him as a close family friend. 

While the cause of Taylor Wily’s death has not been made public, the impact of his loss is already deeply felt by fans and colleagues alike. Wily appeared in 171 episodes of Hawaii Five-0 over a decade, endearing himself to audiences with his charisma and warmth. 

His other notable roles included appearances in Magnum P.I. and the 2008 rom-com Forgetting Sarah Marshall. However, Taylor Wily's talents extended far beyond acting. Before he graced our screens, he was a sumo wrestler and mixed martial artist. 

Scroll down for more details about the legend.

Wily will always be in our hearts

Remembering Taylor Wily: A beloved actor whose warmth and smile brought joy to many. You will be deeply missed.

Taylor once competed in one of the first UFC events in 1993, going up against Gerard Gordeau. Though that fight is infamous for Wily losing a tooth to a well-placed kick, it’s clear that his adventurous spirit and lack of regrets defined his approach to life. 

In a 2018 interview with The New York Post, Wily reflected on his time in the octagon. "There was a different feeling when you walked through that octagon," he said. "I was scared. I’m not lying; I was scared. Now, when I look back on it, now that I’m more mature, I’m just grateful to God for having the opportunity to risk it."

Fans have flooded social media with tributes to Wily, highlighting the joy he brought into their lives. "He was an amazing actor; he will be missed," one fan wrote. Another added, "I’ve never hated a character of his. RIP." 

Even Peter M. Lenkov, the producer of Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I., took to Instagram to express his grief. "I am devastated. Heartbroken. I'll post some detailed feelings later. It's just too hard right now," Lenkov captioned a picture of the two of them together.

Experts suggest that acknowledging the contributions of public figures like Taylor Wily can foster community resilience and healing. Dr. Kevin Smith, a psychologist, explains that public mourning can create a shared space for collective grief.

He advises that communities should engage in memorial activities, such as gatherings or online tributes, to honor the legacies of influential individuals. This approach not only provides closure but also strengthens community bonds, reminding us of the shared values and inspirations that unite us.

A gentle giant with a heart of gold. Rest in peace, Taylor Wily. Your legacy lives on

The Legacy of Taylor Wily

Shannon Sharpe, a sports commentator, emphasizes the profound impact Wily had on both the UFC and the entertainment industry. He notes that Wily's ability to blend his fighting spirit with acting showcased a unique versatility that inspired many.

Sharpe states, 'Taylor Wily was more than just a fighter; he was a bridge between two worlds, showing us the strength of character and talent.' His work on Hawaii Five-0 not only entertained but also highlighted Hawaiian culture, making him a beloved figure.

Taylor Wily is survived by his wife, Halona, and their two children. His legacy, however, extends far beyond his family. Whether through his unforgettable performances on television or his fearless foray into the world of mixed martial arts, Wily has left a mark on everyone who had the pleasure of watching him.

As we remember Taylor Wily, let’s celebrate the joy he brought into our lives and the infectious spirit that touched everyone around him. Taylor, you will be missed but never forgotten. Aurrrrighhh indeed.

In remembering Taylor Wily, we celebrate not just his contributions to the UFC and entertainment, but also the lessons he imparted on resilience and cultural pride. As Shannon Sharpe articulates, Wily's legacy extends beyond his roles; he is a reminder of the power of representation in media.

Communities can take this moment to reflect on how public figures inspire collective action and emotional healing. Engaging in shared commemorative practices can lead to a deeper understanding of our connections, fostering a sense of unity in our shared grief.