Tamayo Perry, ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Actor and Lifeguard, Dies in Hawaii Shark Attack

Tamayo Perry, a lifeguard and surf instructor known for roles in films like “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” and “Blue Crush,” tragically passed away on Sunday due to an apparent shark attack on Hawaii’s North Shore, officials reported.

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi described Perry, 49, as an “eight-year veteran of Honolulu Ocean Safety and a well-known figure in North Shore watersports.”

“He embodied bravery, dedication, and a profound sense of duty, tirelessly ensuring the safety of our community,” Blangiardi remarked.

Responders from Honolulu Ocean Safety and other emergency services arrived at the beach shortly before 1 p.m. on Sunday following reports of a surfer fatally injured in a shark attack, according to Honolulu Emergency Medical Services spokesperson Shayne Enright.

Perry was brought ashore by jet ski and pronounced dead by first responders.

Described as a beloved lifeguard and globally recognized professional surfer, Perry was celebrated for his infectious personality, noted Honolulu Ocean Safety acting Chief Kurt Lager.

“As much as he was loved, he loved others even more,” Lager expressed.

Perry made several TV and movie appearances, according to his IMBD page.

Perry’s bio on the Oahu Surfing Experience website lists the “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie, “Charlie’s Angels 2,” “Blue Crush,” and hit TV shows “Lost” and “Hawaii Five-0,” among his credits.

Perry also appeared in national and international ad campaigns, he wrote.

“When I’m not acting, I’m still quite a character, so there’s always a ton of fun to be had,” he said.

Perry’s wife, Emilia Perry, was born and raised in Western Australia and competed as a professional bodyboarder before moving to Hawaii, where she met her husband and started surfing competitively, according to her bio on the surfing website.

“When I was 18 years old, I came to Hawaii for a competition and met Tamayo while bodyboarding out at Pipeline. A few years later, I picked up a surfboard, we got married and there was no turning back,” she wrote, adding, “the vast amounts of ocean knowledge that Tamayo has ingrained in me over the years is priceless.”

The University of Florida’s International Shark Attack File lists 120 shark bite incidents in 2023. Of the 36 shark bites that occurred in the US, eight were in Hawaii, one of which was fatal.

According to the shark attack file’s 2023 report, surfers experienced 42% of bites worldwide. Though the number of bites and fatalities increased last year, compared to the previous year, the report authors say the numbers are still in line with recent trends.

The Honolulu community will provide the necessary support following Perry’s death, the mayor said.

“As we grieve this unimaginable loss, we are reminded of the inherent risks faced by our lifeguards daily, and we extend our deepest gratitude for their service,” Blangiardi said.