Daveigh Chase Dies at 35: ‘Lilo & Stitch’ and ‘The Ring’ Star Remembered for Iconic Career

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of actress Daveigh Chase, who has reportedly died at the age of 35.

Known for voicing the spirited young heroine Lilo in Disney’s Lilo & Stitch and delivering one of horror’s most unforgettable performances as Samara Morgan in The Ring, Chase left a lasting impression on audiences long before adulthood. News of her passing was reported on June 17, 2026, with multiple outlets citing statements from those close to her.

Reported Cause of Death

According to reports, Chase’s boyfriend said the actress died after suffering complications related to meningitis and a serious blood infection that progressed to sepsis, ultimately leading to organ failure. She had reportedly been hospitalized earlier this month after experiencing significant health issues.

As of publication, no official statement from her representatives or family has provided additional details beyond those publicly reported.

A Child Star Who Became a Household Name

Born on July 24, 1990, Daveigh Chase began acting at a young age and quickly built an impressive résumé.

Her breakout year came in 2002, when she voiced Lilo Pelekai in Disney’s animated hit Lilo & Stitch. The heartfelt story of family, friendship, and belonging became an instant classic and introduced Chase’s voice to millions around the world.

That same year, she terrified moviegoers as Samara Morgan in The Ring, portraying the mysterious girl whose eerie presence became one of horror cinema’s most recognizable images.

More Than Just Two Iconic Roles

While many fans remember her for Lilo & Stitch and The Ring, Chase enjoyed a diverse career across film and television.

She provided the English-language voice of Chihiro in the acclaimed animated film Spirited Away and appeared in projects including:

• Donnie Darko
• Big Love
• Oliver Beene
• ER
• Charmed
• CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

Her performances demonstrated a remarkable range, moving seamlessly between family entertainment, drama, and psychological horror.

Fans Pay Tribute

Following reports of her death, fans across social media began sharing clips, artwork, and memories celebrating Chase’s career. Many reflected on growing up with Lilo & Stitch, while horror enthusiasts praised her unforgettable portrayal of Samara, a role that continues to influence the genre more than two decades later.

A Lasting Legacy

Although her acting career slowed in recent years, Daveigh Chase’s work remains deeply embedded in popular culture. Her voice brought warmth and authenticity to one of Disney’s most beloved characters, while her performance in The Ring helped redefine supernatural horror for a generation of moviegoers.

She is remembered not only for the iconic characters she portrayed but also for the lasting impact those performances continue to have on audiences around the world.

derivative work: Tabercil (talk)Daveigh_Chase_LF.jpg: lukeford.net, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

---

---