Taylor Wily, also known as Teila Tuli, is an accomplished American actor and former sumo wrestler, best known for his portrayal of Kamekona Tupuola on the CBS television series “Hawaii Five-0.” Born on June 14, 1969, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Wily has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry, particularly in television. As of 2024, Taylor Wily’s estimated net worth is around $5 million, reflecting his success and enduring popularity. At the age of 55, he continues to be a beloved figure on and off the screen.
Early Life and Sumo Wrestling Career
Taylor Wily was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. From a young age, he was drawn to sumo wrestling, a sport that holds significant cultural importance in Japan. Embracing this passion, he pursued sumo wrestling professionally and achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first non-Japanese sumo wrestler to compete in professional sumo in Japan. Despite this groundbreaking achievement, his sumo career was unfortunately cut short due to injuries. This setback, however, did not deter Wily; instead, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
Transition to Acting
Wily’s transition to acting began in 1987 when he landed a minor role in the critically acclaimed film “The Last Emperor.” Although his part in the film was small, it ignited his interest in the entertainment industry and set the stage for future opportunities. Over the years, he appeared in various films and television series, gradually building his acting portfolio. His perseverance and talent eventually paid off in 2010 when he was cast as Kamekona Tupuola in “Hawaii Five-0.”
Breakthrough with “Hawaii Five-0”
The role of Kamekona Tupuola in “Hawaii Five-0” proved to be a turning point in Taylor Wily’s career. Since the show’s inception in 2010, Wily has been a central character, appearing in over 200 episodes. His portrayal of Kamekona, a local entrepreneur and informant for the Five-0 Task Force, has been highly acclaimed by both fans and critics. The success of the series has significantly boosted Wily’s visibility and earnings, solidifying his status as a beloved television actor.
Diversifying Career Ventures
Beyond his acting career, Taylor Wily has explored various other ventures that have contributed to his net worth. His popularity from “Hawaii Five-0” has made him a sought-after figure for endorsements. He has appeared in several commercials, most notably for Subway, where his unique persona and broad recognition have made him an ideal candidate for advertising campaigns. These endorsements have added a substantial income stream to his career.
Voice-Over Work and Video Games
Taylor Wily has also ventured into voice-over work, lending his voice to several video games, including “Hawaii Five-0: The Game.” His distinctive voice and charismatic presence have made his contributions to video games particularly memorable. This aspect of his career has provided an additional income stream, further bolstering his overall net worth.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Taylor Wily is known for being a private individual, keeping his personal life away from the public eye. He is married and has four children. Residing in Hawaii, Wily enjoys spending time with his family and participating in local cultural activities. Despite his fame, he remains deeply connected to his roots and his community.
In addition to his professional achievements, Taylor Wily is recognized for his philanthropic efforts. He is actively involved in several charitable organizations in Hawaii and frequently participates in fundraising events. While these activities do not directly contribute to his net worth, they highlight his commitment to giving back to his community and making a positive impact.
Projected Net Worth in 2024
As of 2024, Taylor Wily’s net worth is projected to be around $5 million. This estimate encompasses his earnings from his acting career, particularly his long-standing role in “Hawaii Five-0,” as well as his other ventures such as commercials and voice-over work. It’s important to note that net worth can fluctuate based on various factors, including new roles, investments, and personal expenditures. Nevertheless, Wily’s diverse sources of income and ongoing presence in the entertainment industry suggest a stable financial future.
Conclusion
Taylor Wily’s journey from a professional sumo wrestler to a beloved actor on “Hawaii Five-0” is a testament to his versatility and resilience. His ability to navigate through different careers and successfully establish himself in the entertainment industry is commendable. With a projected net worth of $5 million in 2024, Taylor Wily continues to be an influential and cherished figure, both on and off the screen. His story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with determination and adaptability, one can achieve greatness in multiple fields.
