Taylor Wily, best known for his roles in Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I., is dead at 56.
"Taylor was one of the nicest people I’ve ever met, a genuine good guy," the late star's attorney, Paul Almond, said in a statement shared with PEOPLE. "His was a life well lived and deserves to be recognized for that."
Taylor Wily wa an American actor, mixed martial artist, and former sumo wrestler, best known for his role as Kamekona Tupuola on the television series "Hawaii Five-0." Born on June 14, 1969, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Wily's diverse career and cultural heritage make him a unique and compelling figure in the entertainment world.
Early Life and Sumo Career
Taylor Wily, born Teila Tuli, grew up in a large Samoan family in Hawaii. He was introduced to sumo wrestling through his uncle, who was involved in the sport. This connection, combined with his natural size and strength, led him to pursue a career in sumo wrestling in Japan.
In the world of sumo, he was given the ring name "Takamikuni." He began his sumo career in March 1987 at the age of 18, entering the world of professional sumo with high expectations. Despite his promising start, Wily's sumo career was relatively short-lived. He reached the rank of Makushita 2 but suffered a knee injury that forced him to retire from the sport in July 1989, after just 26 months of competition.
Transition to Acting
After his sumo career ended, Wily transitioned into acting. His large stature and unique look made him an attractive choice for various roles, especially those requiring a commanding physical presence. One of his earliest roles was in the 1994 movie "Rising Sun," where he appeared alongside Sean Connery and Wesley Snipes. This role marked the beginning of Wily's acting career, opening doors to various opportunities in film and television.
"Hawaii Five-0" and Breakthrough Success
Wily's most notable role came in 2010 when he was cast as Kamekona Tupuola in the reboot of the television series "Hawaii Five-0." Kamekona is a recurring character, a reformed criminal who becomes a trusted informant for the Hawaii Five-0 task force and runs a shrimp truck business. Wily's portrayal of Kamekona brought a lighthearted and humorous element to the show, making him a fan favorite.
The success of "Hawaii Five-0" significantly raised Wily's profile in the entertainment industry. His character's warmth, combined with his comedic timing, endeared him to audiences, and he became one of the show's most memorable characters. Wily's performance earned him a dedicated fan base and solidified his place in the entertainment world.
Other Acting Roles
Beyond "Hawaii Five-0," Taylor Wily has appeared in several other television shows and films. He had guest roles in popular series such as "Magnum P.I.," "MacGyver," and "North Shore." In each of these roles, Wily brought his unique presence and charm, contributing to the success of the shows. His versatility as an actor allowed him to take on various character types, from comedic roles to more serious, dramatic performances.
Personal Life and Legacy
Taylor Wily was known for his affable personality and strong ties to his Hawaiian roots. Despite his fame, he remained grounded and connected to his community. Wily's journey from sumo wrestling to acting is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. He had successfully navigated multiple career changes, always finding new ways to leverage his talents and personality.
In addition to his professional achievements, Wily was also a family man. He was married and has children, and he often spoke about the importance of family and community in his life. His cultural heritage and personal experiences have shaped his career and his approach to his work, making him a beloved figure both on and off the screen.
Impact on Pop Culture
Taylor Wily's impact on pop culture extends beyond his roles on screen. As one of the few actors of Samoan descent in mainstream American television, he represents an important facet of diversity in the entertainment industry. His success serves as an inspiration to many young actors from similar backgrounds, demonstrating that it is possible to achieve success in Hollywood while staying true to one's roots.
Wily's character, Kamekona, in "Hawaii Five-0," has become iconic, often cited in discussions about positive representations of Pacific Islanders in media. The character's blend of humour, warmth, and depth has resonated with audiences worldwide, contributing to a greater appreciation for Hawaiian culture and the diverse tapestry of characters on television.
His story is one of perseverance and adaptability, showcasing how one can successfully transition from one career to another while maintaining a strong sense of identity and purpose. Taylor Wily's contributions to entertainment and his role as a cultural ambassador for Hawaii and the Pacific Islander community ensure that his legacy will endure for years to come.
In summary, Taylor Wily was a multifaceted entertainer whose journey from sumo wrestling to acting has been marked by notable successes and a strong connection to his cultural heritage. His role as Kamekona on "Hawaii Five-0" has made a lasting impact on audiences, and his past work continues to inspire and entertain.
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