The British film industry has paid tribute to actress Daveigh Chase, best known for her role as Samara Morgan in the 2002 horror film ‘The Ring’, who has died at the age of 35. Chase, who also voiced Lilo in Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’, passed away on 1 February 2025. The cause of death has not been disclosed, but her family confirmed the news in a statement describing her as a “bright light” who touched many lives.
Chase’s career began at a young age, with her breakout role as the terrifying Samara, a ghostly girl who emerges from a videotape to bring death within seven days. The film, a remake of the Japanese horror ‘Ringu’, was a global success and cemented Chase’s place in horror history. Director Gore Verbinski praised her “haunting performance” that required a “deep understanding of stillness and menace” for a child actor.
Beyond horror, Chase provided the voice for the beloved character Lilo in ‘Lilo & Stitch’ and its sequels, a role that showcased her vocal range and emotional depth. She later appeared in TV series such as ‘Big Love’, where she played the younger version of a polygamist wife, and ‘The Lost Room’. Her final acting credits include independent films and voice work for animation.
Tributes have poured in from across the British film community. Author and filmmaker Mark Kermode called her performance in ‘The Ring’ “a masterclass in controlled terror” and noted that she “reshaped the modern horror landscape”. Actor and producer Edgar Wright tweeted: “Daveigh Chase brought a chilling innocence to Samara. Her impact on horror is immeasurable. Rest in peace.”
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) released a statement expressing “deep sadness” at her passing, highlighting her “remarkable talent” that “transcended genre and generation”. In the UK, where the original Japanese film also held strong influence, her portrayal was widely regarded as a definitive horror icon.
Chase’s death at such a young age has shocked many. Mental health awareness groups have emphasised the need for support in the entertainment industry, where young actors face unique pressures. The Samara character, a symbol of trauma and unresolved grief, now takes on a poignant irony for fans.
She is survived by her mother, stepfather, and two siblings. A private funeral will be held in her home state of Oregon, with a public memorial planned in Los Angeles later this month. The family has requested donations to the Actors Fund in lieu of flowers.
Daveigh Chase’s legacy is one of quiet but indelible impact. From the haunting well of ‘The Ring’ to the sunny beaches of Hawaii in ‘Lilo & Stitch’, she left a mark on cinema that will endure long beyond her years.
