Taylor Wily net worth has been a topic of interest for fans who admire his journey from UFC sumo wrestler to a successful Hollywood actor. Best known for playing Kamekona Tupuola in Hawaii Five 0, he built his fortune through acting, endorsements, and a past career in combat sports.
Before fame, he competed as Teila Tuli UFC fighter and a sumo wrestler in Japan. His transition to acting, starting with Forgetting Sarah Marshall, significantly increased his wealth.
As of 2025, his estimated net worth is $2 million, making him one of the most financially successful actors from Hawaii Five O. His story is an inspiring tale of resilience and career reinvention.
Profile Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Taylor Tuli Wily |
| Nickname | “Big T” |
| Date of Birth | June 14, 1968 |
| Date of Death | June 20, 2024 |
| Age (At Death) | 56 years |
| Place of Birth | Honolulu, Hawaii |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Polynesian (Samoan ,Hawaiian) |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) |
| Weight | 425 lbs (193 kg) at peak |
| Weight Loss | Significant in later years |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Profession | Actor, Former UFC Fighter, Sumo Wrestler |
| Famous Role | Kamekona Tupuola in Hawaii Five 0 |
| Education | Kahuku High School |
| Wife | Halona Wily |
| Children | Not publicly known |
| Net Worth (2025) | $2 million |
| Major Income Sources | Acting, endorsements, past sports career |
| Years Active | 1987–2024 |
| Notable Shows & Movies | Hawaii Five 0, Magnum P.I., Forgetting Sarah Marshall, North Shore |
| Social Media | Not Active |
Who is Taylor Wily?
Born on June 14, 1968, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Taylor Wily first made a name for himself in sumo wrestling. He trained at Azumazeki Stable, the same place where Takamiyama Daigorō and Akebono Tarō trained. Later, he transitioned into mixed martial arts, fighting in UFC 1 against Gerard Gordeau on November 12, 1993.
His acting career began in 2004 when he appeared in North Shore. In 2008, he played a minor role in Forgetting Sarah Marshall, starring Jason Segel. However, his big break came in 2010 when he was cast as Kamekona Tupuola in Hawaii Five 0. This role made him a household name and significantly boosted his net worth.
What is Taylor Wily Net Worth?
As of 2025, Taylor Wily net worth is estimated at $2 million. His earnings come from acting, guest appearances, and past sports careers.
| Source | Earnings Contribution |
| Acting in TV & Films | 70% |
| Endorsements | 15% |
| Former Sumo & UFC Career | 10% |
| Other Ventures | 5% |
Taylor Wily Career Beginnings
Taylor Wily started his journey in sumo wrestling in March 1987, competing under Nankairyū Tarō. He advanced through the ranks but retired in September 1990 due to knee injuries. He then transitioned to mixed martial arts and participated in UFC 1 in Denver, United States, where he fought against Gerard Gordeau.
After his UFC loss, he moved into acting. His early TV appearances included One West Waikiki and The Amazing Race in 2012. His breakthrough came in 2010, when he landed the role of Kamekona Hawaii Five O, which he played until 2020.
Taylor Wily Personal Life & Family
Taylor Wily wife is Halona Wily, and they have built a private yet strong family life in Hawaii. Despite his fame, Taylor Wily family stays away from the spotlight, focusing on their personal lives.
He attended Kahuku High School and later Farrington High School before moving to Japan for sumo wrestling. Though he left sports behind, his background in sumo and Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) shaped his discipline and career choices.
Taylor Wily Height, Weight & Physical Appearance
Many fans are curious about Taylor Wily weight loss. Over the years, he has worked on his health, losing significant weight.
| Feature | Details |
| Height | 6’2” (188 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 375 lbs (170 kg) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
Taylor Wily Movies and TV Shows
Over the years, Taylor Wily has appeared in various movies and TV shows, contributing to his fame and wealth.
| Show/Movie | Role | Year |
| Hawaii Five 0 | Kamekona Tupuola | 2010–2020 |
| Forgetting Sarah Marshall | Hotel Worker | 2008 |
| Magnum P.I. | Kamekona | 2018–2024 |
| MacGyver | Guest Role | 2017 |
| North Shore | Guest Role | 2004 |
Taylor Wily Yearly Earnings & Salary
Taylor Wily salary varies, but he earns around $200,000 per year, with most of his income coming from TV roles and endorsements.
| Earnings Type | Estimated Amount |
| Yearly Income | $200,000 |
| Monthly Income | $16,500 |
| Weekly Earnings | $4,000 |
Is Kamekona’s Shrimp Truck Real?
Fans often ask, “Is Kamekona’s shrimp truck real?” The answer is no. The famous shrimp truck featured in Hawaii Five 0 was created for the show. However, it became so popular that some real life food trucks in Hawaii now use the name Big T’s Shrimp Truck as a tribute.
What Happened to Kamekona on Hawaii Five O?
Many fans want to know, “Does Kamekona die in Hawaii Five O?” The good news is that Kamekona did not die on the show.
He remained a key character until the series ended in 2020. Some fans believed in a Hawaii Five O Kamekona death rumor, but it was false.
Conclusion
Taylor Wily net worth reflects his successful journey from sumo wrestling to Hollywood fame. His role as Kamekona Tupuola in Hawaii Five 0 made him a household name, contributing significantly to his wealth.
Beyond acting, his time in UFC and sumo wrestling in Japan played a role in shaping his career. Despite facing challenges, he remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
His legacy as an actor and former athlete continues to inspire many, proving that dedication and passion lead to long term success.
FAQs
What did Taylor Wily pass away from?
Taylor Wily sadly passed away on June 20, 2024, but his family has not publicly disclosed the cause of his death.
Was Taylor Wily married?
Yes, Taylor Wily was married to Halona Wily, and they shared a happy life together.
Who is the shrimp guy on Hawaii Five 0?
The famous shrimp truck owner in Hawaii Five 0 is Kamekona Tupuola, played by Taylor Wily.
How much does Kamekona weigh?
Kamekona, played by Taylor Wily, was known for his large frame, weighing around 350–400 lbs during his acting career.
Is Kamekona’s shrimp truck real?
No, Kamekona’s shrimp truck in Hawaii Five 0 is fictional, but many real shrimp trucks operate in Honolulu, Hawaii.
What Hawaii 5 0 star died?
Taylor Wily, who played Kamekona Tupuola, passed away on June 20, 2024, leaving fans heartbroken.
Who is the girl with no legs on Hawaii Five O?
The inspiring double amputee Angela Keen appeared on Hawaii Five 0, showcasing her strength and resilience.
Who is the owner of the food truck in Hawaii Five 0?
Kamekona Tupuola, played by Taylor Wily, is the charismatic owner of the famous shrimp truck in Hawaii Five 0.
Why did Kamekona go to jail?
In Hawaii Five 0, Kamekona had a criminal past involving drug dealing, but he turned his life around after serving time.
