Daveigh Chase has died at the young age of 35. She passed away on Tuesday after a brutal fight with meningitis and a severe blood infection. The complications quickly triggered sepsis, which led to multiple organ failure. It is a truly devastating loss for her fans and loved ones.
Long before her health took this tragic turn, Chase was a massive part of millennial childhoods. Back in 2002, she landed her breakout role voicing the quirky and lovable Lilo Pelekai in Disney’s hit movie “Lilo & Stitch.” Her voice brought so much genuine heart to that character, making the concept of family stick with millions of viewers.
That very same year, Chase showed off her incredible range by pivoting into the horror genre. She played the terrifying ghost girl Samara Morgan in the supernatural blockbuster movie “The Ring.” Her chilling performance earned her an MTV Movie Award for Best Villain, cementing her place in pop culture history.
Her talent did not stop there. She also lent her voice to the lead character Chihiro Ogino in the English version of the Oscar-winning film “Spirited Away.” As she grew older, she moved into dramatic television roles. Her biggest live-action television role was playing Rhonda Volmer on HBO’s acclaimed series “Big Love,” where she appeared in 32 episodes over five seasons.
Despite all her success on screen, life behind the scenes became incredibly difficult as she entered adulthood. Chase faced heavy personal and legal challenges during different parts of her life. She eventually stepped away from the bright Hollywood spotlight, trying to find peace away from the public eye.
Things grew critical earlier this month when Chase was admitted to a hospital in the Los Angeles area. Medical reports indicate she was initially treated for severe malnutrition before the additional health complications kicked in. Her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, shared that her condition quickly spiraled down from there.
Now, fans from around the world are mourning the girl who defined so much of their childhood entertainment. Hernandez started an online fundraiser to help out with her final expenses, revealing how hard she struggled to find safety and happiness in downtown Los Angeles. She leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable roles that will be remembered for generations.
