Daveigh Chase, the American actress best known for her roles in the horror film The Ring and the animated feature Lilo & Stitch, has died at the age of 35. Her death was confirmed by her family in a statement released on Wednesday. No cause of death was given.
Chase began her career as a child actress, earning critical acclaim for her portrayal of the troubled Samara Morgan in the 2002 remake of The Ring. The film, directed by Gore Verbinski, became a cultural phenomenon and solidified Chase's place in horror cinema. Her performance was noted for its chillingly detached demeanour, a quality that belied her youth.
She also voiced the mischievous alien experiment Stitch in the Disney animated film Lilo & Stitch, a role that endeared her to a generation of children. The film, released in 2002, was a commercial and critical success, spawning sequels and a television series. Chase's vocal work was praised for its energetic and emotive range.
Beyond these iconic roles, Chase appeared in television series such as Big Love and films including The Lady of the Lake. Her career, though truncated, demonstrated a versatility that spanned genres from family animation to psychological horror.
The British film industry, where Chase had cultivated a following through her work with director Hideo Nakata on the British-Japanese co-production The Ring Two, expressed condolences. Industry figures noted her professionalism and the intensity she brought to her craft.
Chase's death marks the loss of a talent whose work resonated across continents. She is survived by her parents and a brother. A private funeral is planned.
