Peter Navy Tuiasosopo, Street Fighter and Necessary Roughness Star, Passes Away at 61: He 'Lived an Incredible Life'.
Peter Navy Tuiasosopo, the actor known for his roles in Street Fighter and Necessary Roughness, has passed away at the age of 61. His son, Manoah, confirmed the tragic news in a heartfelt Facebook post on Monday, February 10. According to the post, Peter died at 3:16 a.m. that morning due to heart complications.
With deep emotion, Manoah shared, “With a heavy heart… our father Peter N. Tuiasosopo passed away this morning at 3:16 a.m.” He went on to describe his father as someone who lived “an amazing life” and reassured those mourning that his impact would continue. “We will continue to live with him in spirit, and as saddened as we are, he is without a doubt in Heaven with his brothers, sisters, parents, daughter, and Jesus, and no longer in pain,” he said.
Manoah expressed gratitude for his father's legacy, noting, “His strength, love, compassion, and kindness will forever be felt.” He also revealed that a celebration of life would be held, with details to be announced in the future.
TMZ, who first reported the news, confirmed that Peter passed away in Phoenix, Arizona. Manoah described his father as “a trailblazer for Polynesian actors in Hollywood,” paying tribute to his pioneering role in opening doors for others in the entertainment industry.
Peter Navy Tuiasosopo’s acting career began in the 1990s. He gained recognition for his role as Manumana in Necessary Roughness before taking on the iconic role of E. Honda in the Street Fighter movie, based on the popular video game series. His other notable film roles included playing Ed Tuttle in BASEketball, and appearances in The Scorpion King, The Fast and the Furious, Austin Powers in Goldmember, and Speed Racer.
However, Peter also made a lasting mark on television. He appeared in several well-known shows such as Magnum P.I., Black-ish, NCIS, and The Young and the Restless, where he portrayed the character Koa. He also starred in the short-lived 2004 TV series Hawaii, about an elite crime unit of the Honolulu Police Department. Other memorable TV appearances included roles in New Girl, where he played the recurring character Big Bob, and Easy Money, where he portrayed Manny Mamayo.
Peter’s passing has left many fans heartbroken. On Facebook, several shared their condolences, remembering him fondly. One fan wrote, “Beyond Heartbroken! No words I can say at this. Sad, sad day.” Another shared, “You are so loved Pete, praying for your family through this difficult time. Sending you love.” One mourner wrote, “This one hurts. My heart mourns for you all.”
In addition to heartfelt tributes, one fan sent their “deepest deepest condolences” to Peter's family, recalling how the actor touched many lives with “his big smile, and his wisdom.”
Peter Navy Tuiasosopo’s death has left a deep void in the entertainment world. His contributions as a Polynesian actor paved the way for many in Hollywood, and his kindness and positivity will continue to be remembered by all who knew him.
