Keo Woolford, a filmmaker and actor whose credits include the CBS police drama “Hawaii 5-0,” died Monday after suffering a stroke. He was 49.
Woolford’s publicist Tracy Larrua told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser that Woolford suffered a stroke on Friday, and died at Pali Momi Medical Center in West O’ahu.
Larrua confirmed Woolford’s death to TheWrap on Tuesday, while costar Daniel Dae Kim took to Twitter to pay his respects.
As talented as you were, I will remember you most for your kindness. Thank you for sharing your light with us, @KeoWoolford. Rest In Peace.
— Daniel Dae Kim (@danieldaekim) November 29, 2016
Honolulu native Woolford appeared in six episodes of “Hawaii 5-0” as Detective James Chang. His other credits included 2012’s “Act of Valor” and 2014’s “Godzilla.”
As a producer and director, Woolford’s credits included “The Lees of Los Angeles” and 2013’s “The Haumana.”
According to Larrua, Woolford had recently finished a script for a follow-up to “The Haumana,” and planned to conduct cast auditions for the new film in January.
Actress Kelly Hu, who appeared in “The Haumana,” remembered Woolford as a “chosen brother” and a “great talent who allowed other talents to shine.”
“He didn’t pigeon hole me like so many other people in Hollywood did. He gave me the opportunity to bring the character of Linda to life in ‘The Haumana.’” Hu recalled. “I got to play a role unlike any other I’ve ever done which ironically, is closest to who I am. I got to finally use my Pidgin English and he allowed me to have creative freedom with the character. He was a great talent who allowed other talents to shine. And, I will miss my chosen brother immensely.”
The original movie followed a man who’s appointed as the successor to a high school boys’ hula class when his former teacher passes away.