The actress Daveigh Chase, best known for her chilling role in the horror film The Ring and for voicing the beloved character Lilo in Disney's Lilo & Stitch, has died at the age of 35. A cause of death has not yet been released.
Chase's career began as a child actress, drawing praise for her performance as the tormented Samara Morgan in the 2002 film The Ring. The role, which required her to embody a ghostly girl who emerged from a television set, cemented her place in horror cinema history. That same year, she provided the voice for the spirited Hawaiian girl Lilo in Disney's animated hit Lilo & Stitch. The film, a story about family and belonging, showcased her vocal range and warmth, earning her a loyal following among younger audiences.
Born on July 24, 1990, in Las Vegas, Nevada, Chase started acting at the age of eight. She appeared in television series including The Practice and Touched by an Angel before landing her breakout film roles. Her final acting credit was in 2020 for a short film titled The Great American Dream. In recent years, she had stepped away from the public eye, with fans and colleagues expressing shock at her sudden passing.
Social media has been flooded with tributes from fellow actors and fans. One fan wrote: 'The Ring terrified me because of her. She will forever be remembered for her haunting performance.' Another added: 'Lilo & Stitch was my childhood. Thank you for giving life to such a kind and brave character.'
Chase's work remains a touchstone for two distinct generations of film lovers. Her ability to alternate between horror and animation demonstrated a rare range. While the circumstances of her death are still unknown, her performances will endure as a testament to her talent.
She is survived by her family. Personal representatives have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
