Former NFL Player, Hollywood Actor Passes Away At 59

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Feb 10, 2025 7:16 PM ET

There are a number of former NFL players and other athletes who made the successful transition from the gridiron to the big screen. Unfortunately, one such NFL and Hollywood star has now been taken from us.

On Monday, the family of Peter "Navy" Tuiasosopo announced that the former NFL center and Hollywood actor passed away on Monday morning. His son Manoah offered thanks to everyone who has been offering thoughts and prayers for them at this time.

"Dear family & friends, With a heavy heart, my family and I want to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. Our father Peter N. Tuiasosopo passed away this morning at 3:16am. My dad lived an amazing life and in no way does his impact stop here," Manoah said. "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. His strength, love, compassion, and kindness will forever be felt.

"My family and I will discuss the decisions regarding a proper Celebration of Life and will announce the details once prepared. We thank you all again for your thoughts and prayers and ask for your continued support through this tough and emotional time."

Tuiasosopo was one of several children to former U.S. Army serviceman Manavaalofa Petelo "Sgt. Pete" Tuiasosopo and Silaulala "Sheila" Lealoa Alofaituli. He played college football at Utah State and went undrafted in the 1987 NFL Draft. He then played two seasons for the Los Angeles Rams before going into acting.

LOS ANGELES - JULY 11: Actors Aya Sumika and Peter Navy Tuiasosopo of "Hawaii" speaks with the press during day two of the NBC Summer TCA Press Tour at the Century Plaza Hotel on June 11, 2004 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images

From 1991 to 2018, Tuiasosopo would enjoy small parts in a slew of movies with arguably his most iconic role being E. Honda in the 1994 film adaptation of the video game "Street Fighter." He also appeared in 1997's "Batman & Robin," "The Fast and the Furious," "Ray Donovan," "Charlie's Angels" and "The Scorpion King."

Tuiasosopo comes from a large family of football players with his uncle, brother and several cousins all getting into the sport. His second cousin is former NFL quarterback and longtime assistant coach Marques Tuiasosopo.

Our hearts go out to Tuiasosopo's family and loved ones.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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