Actress Daveigh Chase, best known for her roles in The Ring and Lilo & Stitch, has died at the age of 35. The star passed away on June 16 after battling meningitis and blood infections, according to reports.
Career Highlights
Chase rose to fame as a child actress, voicing the titular character Lilo in Disney's animated feature Lilo & Stitch. She also portrayed the terrifying Samara Morgan in the horror film The Ring. Additionally, she voiced Chihiro in the English dub of Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away and played Samantha Darko in Donnie Darko.
Circumstances of Her Death
TMZ reported that her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, revealed she died from meningitis and blood infections that led to septic issues. Chase had been admitted to a Los Angeles hospital earlier in June due to malnutrition.
Fundraiser and Personal Struggles
A GoFundMe campaign was launched to raise funds for the actress. The description noted she had faced "more than her share of hardship" throughout her life, including a difficult childhood and estrangement from her family. It read: "After a difficult childhood and a painful falling out with her family, Daveigh was bullied and struggled to find safety and happiness in downtown LA." Her condition worsened after being diagnosed with meningitis and severe blood infections.
Fan Tributes
Though Chase had not appeared on screen for over a decade, fans took to social media to pay tribute, recalling her memorable roles from their childhood. Many expressed shock and sadness at the news of her untimely death.
