Former child star Daveigh Chase, best known for voicing Lilo in Disney's Lilo & Stitch and starring in the horror film The Ring, died of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) at age 35, the Los Angeles coroner's office has confirmed. Chase, who also went by Daveigh Schwallier, died on June 17 in Los Angeles.
Cause of Death and Contributing Factors
The coroner's ruling listed AIDS as the primary cause of death, with a secondary cause of 'chronic polysubstance use,' indicating long-term dependency on multiple drugs or substances. Chase's father, John David Schwallier, told the New York Times that she had struggled with drug addiction and had been homeless since age 13. The two had been estranged for many years.
Health Decline and Hospitalization
In the weeks leading up to her death, Chase faced severe health issues. She was hospitalized for severe malnutrition after extreme weight loss. While in the hospital, her condition worsened, and she was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis and multiple severe systemic bloodstream infections. It was at this time that doctors informed her she had AIDS and had little time left.
Boyfriend's Fundraiser and Dispute
Chase's boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover rising medical expenses, stating that Chase had faced 'a difficult childhood and a painful falling out with her family,' as well as systemic bullying and housing instability. 'When we met, I promised to protect her and give her the love and comfort she deserved,' Hernandez wrote. 'Together, we found moments of happiness and hope.'
Chase was pronounced dead just hours after the crowdfunding page went up, with her organs failing. Hernandez reported that 'everything changed' when bloodstream infections led to septic complications, causing her body to shut down. However, a dispute arose as Chase's father and former manager, John Ryan, instructed people not to donate to Hernandez's fundraiser, insisting that the family would independently arrange her funeral and cremation—contrary to Hernandez's claim that donations would cover those costs.
Tributes and Legacy
Former colleagues and friends have paid tribute to Chase, with fans reminiscing about her role in their childhood memories. Chase's acting career included voicing Lilo in the 2002 animated film Lilo & Stitch and its subsequent sequels and television series, as well as playing Samara Morgan in The Ring (2002). She also appeared in Big Love and Deadwood.
