Pirates of the Caribbean star mauled to death in shark attack in Hawaii

A Pirates of the Caribbean star was mauled to death in a shark attack while surfing in Hawaii.

The lifeless body of Tamayo Perry was found with several bites, Honolulu Emergency Medical Services said on Sunday.

The 49-year-old was a professional lifeguard who also worked in some Hollywood productions.

He had been surfing off Goat Island - about 32 miles north of Honolulu - when he was found at 1pm, officials told the Star-Advertiser.

Shayne Enright of the Honolulu Emergency Services Department said lifeguards brought Perry to shore by jet ski and paramedics assisted with the death pronouncement,

Appearing in major blockbusters including Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, he also previously made an appearance in the 2002 Hollywood surfing hit, Blue Crush.

Perry was also a longtime pipeline surfer and lifeguard.

Officials confirmed he was the victim after his next of kin were notified.

Ocean Safety personnel posted shark warnings in the area following the attack, Enright said.

"Tamayo Perry was a lifeguard loved by all, well-known on the North Shore, a professional surfer known worldwide around the world," said Acting Ocean Safety Chief Kurt Lager in a statement.

"Tamayo’s personality was infectious, and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else more.

"Our condolences go out to Tamayo’s family and to the entire lifeguard ohana. We’re asking for some privacy for his family at this time."

Mayor Rick Blangiardi joined Lager in requesting Perry's family be given time to grieve.

He said the community was reeling from a 'tragic loss', adding: “Tamayo was a legendary waterman and highly respected... a great member of our Ocean Safety team; it’s just really hard to imagine, so we just want to pay our respects to our guys.'

“I hope everyone wishes the family the best honors and respects the situation.”

Jason Bitzer, who considered Perry to be like family, wrote a touching tribute on Facebook, sharing: “The things we have seen! My brother in Christ I love you brah! Tamayo, I won’t get over this until I see you in heaven.

“Tamayo Perry you weren’t my friend you were my brother, the pain we're collectively feeling is immense.”