Surfer and 'Pirates of the Caribbean' Actor Tamayo Perry Has Died — What Was His Cause of Death?

Tamayo Perry, a legendary surfer, professional lifeguard, and actor best known for his roles in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, has sadly passed away.

He was 49 years old.

What happened? Here's what we know about Tamayo Perry's cause of death.

According to the Associated Press, Tamayo died after a shark attack while surfing off the island of Oahu in Hawaii on Sunday, June 23, 2024.

Honolulu Ocean Safety, along with the city's fire, police, and emergency medical services departments, swiftly responded to Mālaekahana Beach on Oahu's North Shore shortly before 1 p.m. in response to a report of a man with several shark bites.

Lifeguards and paramedics brought Tamayo Perry to shore via jet ski, where he was pronounced dead at the scene.

During a press conference, Honolulu Ocean Safety Acting Chief Kurt Lager described Tamayo as a "lifeguard loved by all."

"He's well known on the North Shore. He's a professional surfer known worldwide," he continued. "Tamayo's personality was infectious, and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else more."

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said, "Tamayo was a legendary waterman and highly respected," calling his death a "tragic loss."

Ocean Safety officials disclosed that shark warning signs were posted in the vicinity after the incident.

On June 24, the World Surf League released a statement regarding Tamayo's unexpected death:

"We are deeply saddened to share that the surf community lost a beloved icon yesterday. A well-known surfer and lifeguard, Tamayo Perry, passed away after injuries from a shark attack that occurred on the East Side of Oahu. Tamayo was a Pipeline/Teahupo'o specialist, free surfer, former competitor, and member of the WSL for many years. He became a lifeguard for the city and was a big part of the North Shore community."

Tamayo had served with the Ocean Safety Department since July 2016, starting his career as a lifeguard on the North Shore, according to the Associated Press.

In addition to his lifeguarding and surfing career, Tamayo Perry was also known for his acting roles, including appearances in 2011's Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, as well as Blue Crush and Hawaii Five-O.

Tamayo is survived by his wife, Emilia Perry.

Our thoughts are with Tamayo's family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.