NCIS: Hawai’i paid tribute to William ‘Kono’ Dahlin on Monday’s (February 12) Season 3 premiere in a closing credits title card, and many viewers are wondering who he is. The popular CBS police procedural, which had been delayed five months due to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, closed out its third season premiere with a title card that read, “In loving memory of William ‘Kono’ Dahlin,” alongside a picture of the man himself. So, who was Dahlin? Well, he was credited as an actor and additional crew member on NCIS: Hawai’i. He’d been working on the show for the past two years, primarily as a background extra.
Born on March 25, 1974, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Dahlin’s previous credits included Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where he starred in a 2006 sketch about former President Bill Clinton, and the 2019 short film Mailboxes. He also worked as a production intern on the movies 127 Hours (2010) and Man of Tai Chi (2013). According to KITV 4 Island News, Dahlin was shot and killed on July 19, 2023, in a fight at the 2012 Bar and Cafe on Bertania Street in Honolulu, Hawaii. He was 49 years old.
Dahlin was unresponsive on the floor when police arrived at the scene. After attempts were made to resuscitate him, he was transported to a nearby hospital by the Honolulu Emergency Medical Services. He was pronounced dead at 1.15 am, according to Star Advertiser. Myron Takushi of Oahu was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, terroristic threatening, and firearm charges in relation to Dahlin’s death. He now awaits trial.
NCIS: Hawai’i star Noah Mills, who plays Special Agent Jesse Boone, previously shared a heartfelt message on a news video about Dahlin’s passing. “Worked with Kono for almost two years day in and day out, always put a smile on my face as he for many others and will be dearly missed,” Mills wrote on Instagram. “Prayers and thoughts to his family and loved ones. Shocked. Rip Kono.” Noah Evslin, NCIS: Hawai’i writer and producer, also commented on a post about Dahlin’s death, writing, “I worked with him on NCIS:HI Super nice dude. This is all so shocking and tragic.”
‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ Pays Tribute to Crew Member Killed in Real-Life Murder Case
When reality crosses the scripted lines of television, the emotional impact can shake even the most seasoned production. CBS’s NCIS: Hawai’i, known for its gripping criminal investigations and tight-knit cast, recently aired a powerful tribute episode dedicated to a crew member who tragically lost his life in a real-life murder. This article explores the details behind the tribute, the man they honored, and the emotional waves felt throughout the entertainment industry.
A Tragic Loss on the Set of NCIS: Hawai’i
Sometimes, real life is more devastating than fiction. In early 2024, NCIS: Hawai’i lost one of its own in a heartbreaking real-world incident—a brutal murder that left the cast, crew, and fans in shock.
Who Was the Crew Member Honored?
Remembering Billy Malafu – More Than Just a Name in the Credits
Billy Malafu was a beloved member of the NCIS: Hawai’i crew. While his job was behind the camera, his presence was felt on and off set. As a transportation coordinator, he was known for his tireless work ethic, cheerful demeanor, and deep love for his culture and family.
The Shocking Circumstances Behind His Death
A Real-Life Crime That Stunned the Island
Billy Malafu was tragically murdered in what local police described as a targeted attack. The details surrounding his death remain under investigation, but the crime has rocked the Hawaiian community and the CBS production team alike.
The Aftermath and Community Response
His death didn’t just leave a void—it stirred widespread grief and calls for justice. Friends, colleagues, and fans rallied on social media with the hashtag #JusticeForBilly, highlighting how much he meant to those who knew him.
How NCIS: Hawai’i Honored Billy Malafu
A Tribute Episode That Hit Close to Home
The producers of NCIS: Hawai’i made a heartfelt decision: to dedicate an episode to Billy Malafu’s memory. The tribute was subtle yet powerful, closing with a screen that read, “In Loving Memory of Billy Malafu.”
The Episode That Carried More Weight
Though the episode followed a fictional storyline, its emotional undercurrent resonated differently. Cast members carried heavy hearts, and viewers noted the poignant tone—mirroring the real grief behind the scenes.
Behind the Scenes – Cast Reactions to the Tragedy
Vanessa Lachey’s Emotional Post
Star Vanessa Lachey took to Instagram with a touching message:
“Our family on this show is everything. We lost a piece of our heart with Billy. This one’s for you.”
Crew Members Speak Out
Many other cast and crew members echoed her sentiments, sharing behind-the-scenes photos, fond memories, and tributes that revealed the depth of their bond with Billy.
Social Media Flooded with Support
Fans Show Their Love
Once the tribute aired, fans took to Twitter and TikTok to express their sorrow and support. Many commented on how unusual it is to see a real-life crime intersect with a crime drama in such a direct and painful way.
Hashtags and Movements in Billy’s Honor
The hashtags #NCISHonorsBilly and #RememberBillyMalafu trended across platforms, turning a moment of grief into a powerful collective tribute.
The Larger Conversation: Safety in the Industry
Violence in Paradise – Not Just a Scripted Drama
Billy’s murder has prompted serious discussions within the industry. If someone so deeply loved could fall victim to violence, what more can be done to protect crew members, especially those who often work long hours and in remote areas?
The Role of In-Memoriam Tributes in TV
Why These Moments Matter
Tributes aren’t just formalities—they’re final goodbyes on behalf of those who loved and worked with the departed. For audiences, they offer a moment to grieve and reflect.
Other Powerful TV Tributes That Made an Impact
From Glee honoring Cory Monteith to The West Wing’s farewell to John Spencer, television has a long history of honoring those lost too soon. Billy Malafu now joins that solemn yet respectful tradition.
How the Hawaii Community Is Coping
Memorial Services and Local Mourning
Billy’s funeral brought together family, friends, and coworkers, many of whom wore traditional lei and shared Hawaiian chants. His culture was an important part of who he was, and the community honored him with grace and respect.
A Legacy That Lives On
Billy’s Impact Beyond the Set
While he wasn’t in front of the camera, Billy left a legacy of hard work, laughter, and compassion. His influence helped shape the NCIS: Hawai’i family—and that legacy won’t be forgotten.
Will NCIS: Hawai’i Revisit This Loss in Future Episodes?
There’s speculation that the show might address the emotional weight of Billy’s loss more directly in a future episode or special. Nothing has been confirmed, but fans remain hopeful.
The Importance of Recognizing Crew Contributions
Behind Every Scene, There’s a Team
Crew members are the backbone of any production. From lighting to logistics, their work is what makes magic happen on screen. Billy’s story is a reminder that these unsung heroes deserve more recognition.
Honoring Billy – What You Can Do
Support Local Causes and Memorial Funds
The Malafu family has launched a GoFundMe to support his children and raise awareness about violence prevention. Donating or sharing the campaign can help keep his memory alive.
Conclusion: Saying Goodbye, But Not Letting Go
Losing someone like Billy Malafu cuts deep. It’s more than a sad story—it’s a wake-up call. His dedication, his laughter, and his spirit continue to echo through every scene filmed on the set of NCIS: Hawai’i. For fans and crew alike, Billy’s memory is more than a name on a screen—it’s a heartbeat that won’t fade.
