Fans Heartbroken as ‘The Ring’ and ‘Lilo & Stitch’ Star Daveigh Chase Dies at 35: A Look Back at Her Life and Career
Daveigh Chase became famous at a young age and gave audiences several memorable film and television performances. Many viewers remember her as Samara Morgan in The Ring, while others know her as the voice of Lilo in Disney’s Lilo & Stitch.
Chase died on June 16, 2026, at age 35. Her death shocked many fans who grew up with her work. Here is a respectful look back at her life, career, and the roles that made her a memorable performer.
She Died at Age 35
Daveigh Chase died at a Los Angeles hospital at the age of 35.
Her longtime manager, John Ryan Jr., confirmed that she died from sepsis after dealing with meningitis. He also shared that she had been admitted to the hospital because of malnourishment before her death.
News of her passing quickly spread among fans who remembered her work from both movies and television.
She Started Acting When She Was Very Young
Chase began acting when she was only 4 years old.
She first worked in voice acting and theater while growing up in Las Vegas. Her talent showed early, and she soon started getting bigger opportunities.
By the age of 7, she had already landed her first television role in Hollywood.
Her First TV Role Came on a Popular Sitcom
One of Chase’s earliest Hollywood jobs was a small role on Sabrina the Teenage Witch.
The popular sitcom helped introduce her to television audiences and gave her an early step into the entertainment industry.
It was only the beginning of what would become a successful acting career.
She Became Known for Her Role in Donnie Darko
In 2001, Chase appeared in the cult favorite movie Donnie Darko.
She played Samantha Darko, the younger sister of the film’s main character. The movie later became very popular with fans and helped bring more attention to her work.
She later returned to the character in the 2009 film S. Darko.
Her Role in The Ring Made Her a Horror Icon
Many fans remember Chase best for playing Samara Morgan in the 2002 horror movie The Ring.
Her character became one of the most recognizable figures in horror films. The movie was a remake of a Japanese horror story and became a huge success.
Samara’s creepy appearance and unforgettable scenes left a lasting impression on moviegoers around the world.
She Won an MTV Movie Award
Chase’s performance in The Ring earned her major recognition.
In 2003, she won an MTV Movie Award for Best Villain thanks to her portrayal of Samara Morgan.
The role helped make her one of the most talked-about young actresses in Hollywood at the time.
She Was the Voice of Lilo in Lilo & Stitch
The same year she scared audiences in The Ring, Chase also voiced Lilo in Disney’s animated hit Lilo & Stitch.
The character became loved by families around the world. Lilo’s funny, caring, and unique personality made her one of Disney’s most memorable characters.
Many fans still associate Chase with the beloved role today.
Her manager said she retired from full-time acting in 2015.
Even after stepping back, fans continued to remember her most famous roles.
Daveigh Chase leaves behind a career filled with memorable performances.
From frightening audiences in The Ring to bringing Lilo to life in Lilo & Stitch, she created characters that remain popular years later.
Fans around the world continue to celebrate the work she shared during her time in the spotlight.
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