By Benson Judge | Published: June 18, 2026 | Sources: Official Statements, Public Records
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — Daveigh Chase, the former child actress celebrated for voicing Lilo in Disney’s Lilo & Stitch and portraying the terrifying Samara Morgan in the horror hit The Ring, has passed away at the age of 35.
Family representatives and loved ones confirmed her passing following complications related to meningitis and a severe bloodstream infection that led to sepsis and multiple organ failure. Chase died in a Los Angeles hospital on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, after being hospitalized earlier in the month. Her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, said she had also been suffering from malnutrition prior to her death.
The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues who remember Chase as one of the most recognizable child performers of the early 2000s, with a career that spanned animation, horror films, and television dramas.
Life and Legacy
Born on July 24, 1990, Daveigh Chase began performing at an early age and quickly established herself as one of Hollywood’s most versatile young talents. By age seven, she had secured her first major acting opportunities, launching a career that would leave a lasting mark on popular culture.
Chase achieved international recognition as the voice of Lilo Pelekai in Disney’s acclaimed animated film Lilo & Stitch (2002). Her heartfelt performance helped bring the beloved character to life and contributed to the film’s enduring popularity among audiences worldwide.
That same era saw Chase demonstrate remarkable range as a performer. She provided the English-language voice of Chihiro in the acclaimed animated feature Spirited Away, introducing countless viewers to the Academy Award-winning Japanese classic.
Perhaps her most iconic live-action role came in 2002 when she portrayed Samara Morgan in The Ring. Her chilling performance as the supernatural antagonist became one of the defining images of modern horror cinema and remains influential within the genre more than two decades later.
Over a career spanning more than a decade, Chase also earned praise for her portrayal of Rhonda Volmer in HBO’s drama series Big Love. Her performances across film, television, and voice acting showcased a rare versatility that allowed her to excel in dramatically different genres.
Though she stepped away from full-time acting in the mid-2010s, Chase’s work continued to resonate with audiences who grew up watching her performances. She largely maintained a private life after retiring from the spotlight, choosing to remain out of public view in recent years.
“Daveigh was an extraordinary talent whose work touched millions of people around the world. From animation to drama to horror, she brought authenticity and emotion to every role she played.”
— John Ryan Jr., longtime manager, reflecting on her career following her passing
A Lasting Impact on Film and Television
Few child actors successfully navigate multiple genres with the level of success achieved by Daveigh Chase. Her performances in family entertainment, prestige television, and horror films earned her a unique place in entertainment history.
For many fans, Chase’s legacy will be defined by the emotional warmth she brought to Lilo, a character who taught audiences about family, belonging, and resilience. For others, she will be remembered for redefining horror for a generation through her unforgettable portrayal of Samara Morgan.
Industry observers note that her body of work remains influential, particularly among audiences who came of age during the early 2000s and continue to revisit the films and series that helped define that era.
Cause of Death
According to statements provided by her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, and confirmed by her longtime manager, John Ryan Jr., Daveigh Chase died from complications of meningitis and a severe bloodstream infection that progressed to sepsis, ultimately resulting in multiple organ failure.
She had been admitted to a Los Angeles hospital earlier in June and was reportedly experiencing malnutrition at the time of her hospitalization.
Funeral and Memorial Information
According to family representatives, official funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been publicly announced.
- Location: To be announced
- Date & Time: To be announced
- Protocol: Family members have requested privacy as they mourn. Any public memorial details will be shared through official family representatives when available.
Remembering Daveigh Chase
Daveigh Chase leaves behind a remarkable artistic legacy that transcends generations and genres. Whether through the heartfelt voice of Lilo, the courage of Chihiro, or the haunting presence of Samara Morgan, her performances continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
Though her life was tragically cut short, her contributions to film, television, and animation remain an enduring part of modern entertainment history.
Editorial Note: This report has been compiled using verified statements from Roy Hernandez, John Ryan Jr., and publicly available information regarding Daveigh Chase’s career and passing. Details regarding memorial services will be updated as additional information becomes available from authorized family representatives.