Tragic news has struck the surfing and film community as Tamayo Perry, known for his surfing prowess and role in “Pirates of the Caribbean,” died following a shark attack. Perry, 49, was surfing at Mālaekahana Beach on Oahu’s North Shore in Hawaii this past Sunday, June 23, when the incident occurred.
Honolulu Emergency Medical Services reported that Perry was found with multiple shark bites. The alert was raised by an eyewitness who noticed a man suffering from apparent shark wounds, as detailed by Sky News. Lifeguards swiftly brought him back to shore using a jet ski, but despite their efforts, paramedics pronounced Perry dead at the scene around 1pm local time.
Following the attack, shark warning signs were placed around the area by Ocean Safety personnel.
Kurt Lager, the acting chief of Honolulu Ocean Safety, shared his sentiments, saying, “He’s well known on the North Shore. He’s a professional surfer known worldwide. Tamayo’s personality was infectious and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else more.” Lager also mentioned Perry was a cherished lifeguard in the community.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi expressed his condolences, recognizing Perry as “a legendary waterman and highly respected.” He described Perry’s death as “a tragic loss.”
Perry was celebrated in the surfing world for his ability to master the infamous Pipeline wave at Ehukai Beach in Oahu. His talents were showcased in the Pipeline Master Trials, where he emerged victorious in 1999.
His remarkable skills weren’t just limited to surfing; they also paved the way for his career in front of the camera. Perry landed roles in several TV shows and movies, including the 2002 movie “Blue Crush,” “Charlie’s Angels 2” in 2003, and multiple episodes of “Hawaii Five-O.” However, many will remember him for his part in the 2011 installment of “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,” where he starred alongside Johnny Depp, Penélope Cruz, and Ian McShane.
Perry was one of only five selected from nearly 7,000 auditionees for the film in 2010. Recalling his audition, Perry said, “I had to get pretty nasty to stand out. There were some herniated squints.” His performance earned him a spot as one of the ‘core pirates,’ a term used by the production crew to describe key figures rather than mere extras.
Reflecting on his role, Perry mentioned in an interview with the Star Advertiser, “We are right there in your face. It is going to be in 3D, and you are going to get more of us than you want. We’re some bad-boy pirates.”
The surfing and film communities have indeed lost a vibrant soul and a talented individual to this tragic incident.