Pirates of the Caribbean and Blue Crush star, Tamayo Perry, 49, is killed in shark attack in Hawaii
Surfer Tamayo Perry, known for his appearances in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films, died on Sunday after a shark attack while surfing near Goat Island, Oahu. He was 49.
Perry, who was on a break from his job as a lifeguard, was found at 1 PM with multiple shark bites. Lifeguards brought him to shore by jet ski, but he was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Honolulu Emergency Medical Services. Shark warnings have since been posted in the area by Ocean Safety personnel.
Born in 1975 in Oahu, Perry began surfing at age 12 and was considered a future star in his teenage years. According to the Encyclopedia of Surfing, Perry was known for his quiet demeanor and impressive skills, despite lacking sponsorships early on. By 1997, he had developed a distinctive tuberiding style influenced by his favorite surfers, Gerry Lopez and Tom Carroll. He won the prestigious Pipeline Master trials in 1999 and competed sporadically throughout his career.
Perry was also a devout Christian and had starred in major Hollywood films such as "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides" and the 2002 surfing film "Blue Crush." His TV credits included "Lost" and "Hawaii Five-0," and he appeared in numerous surfing videos. At the time of his death, Perry worked as a lifeguard and surfing instructor at Oahu Surfing Experience.
In his biography on the Oahu Surfing Experience website, Perry shared his life lessons: "I’ve gained a tremendous amount of knowledge, not only from what I’ve accomplished, but also from what I’ve suffered." He recounted a near-fatal surfing accident that inspired him to teach proper surf etiquette and safety.
Perry joined the Ocean Safety department as a lifeguard in July 2016. Honolulu Ocean Safety acting chief Kurt Lager described him as "a lifeguard loved by all," noting his infectious personality and worldwide recognition as a professional surfer. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi called Perry’s death "a tragic loss," honoring him as a "legendary waterman" and highly respected figure.
Perry's impact on the surfing community and his legacy as a waterman will be remembered by many.
