Remembering Daveigh Chase: A Talented Actress Gone Too Soon

Daveigh Chase, the talented actress famous for her roles in 'The Ring' and 'Lilo & Stitch,' has tragically passed away at the age of 35. Her boyfriend confirmed that she died from meningitis and a blood infection. Chase's journey into acting began unexpectedly after her family was stranded in Los Angeles due to a car accident. She made her mark in Hollywood at a young age, voicing iconic characters and delivering memorable performances. Despite stepping back from the spotlight in recent years, her legacy continues through the characters she portrayed. Discover more about her life and career in this tribute.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2026, 00:55 IST

Tragic Passing of Daveigh Chase

Daveigh Chase, renowned for her performances in "The Ring" and "Lilo & Stitch," passed away on June 16 at the age of 35. Her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, shared the heartbreaking news with a media outlet, revealing that she succumbed to meningitis coupled with a blood infection. Earlier this month, Chase had been hospitalized in Los Angeles due to malnutrition.

A Glimpse into Daveigh Chase's Life

Born in Las Vegas and raised in Albany, Oregon, Chase's journey into acting was quite unconventional. As detailed in an interview, her family found themselves stranded in Los Angeles after her mother was involved in a car accident. With their plans disrupted, eight-year-old Chase began auditioning, which ultimately paved the way for her acting career.

Early Success in Hollywood

At just ten years old, Chase secured her first significant role as Samantha in the 2001 film "Donnie Darko," marking a strong entry into the film industry. The following year, she voiced two iconic characters that resonated with audiences: Chihiro in the English version of Hayao Miyazaki's "Spirited Away" and Lilo in Disney's "Lilo & Stitch." Additionally, she portrayed the chilling Samara in "The Ring," a performance that earned her the MTV Movie Award for Best Villain, surpassing notable actors like Daniel Day-Lewis and Mike Myers.

Television Appearances and Later Career

Chase remained active on television during the early 2000s, guest-starring in popular series such as "ER," "The Practice," and "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation." Her most significant role was in HBO's "Big Love," where she played Rhonda Volmer, a girl from a polygamist community destined to become a child bride, showcasing her versatility beyond horror and animation.

Final Years and Legacy

Her last film appearance was in the 2016 thriller "American Romance" alongside John Savage. After this project, she largely withdrew from the public eye and the entertainment scene. In a 2009 interview, Chase expressed her desire for her work to have a meaningful impact, stating, "I want to do things that will change someone's life, not something they'll forget about tomorrow." Her memorable characters, whether they were frightening or endearing, have left a lasting impression on audiences.