Tragic Death of Daveigh Chase: Iconic Voice of ‘Lilo & Stitch’ and ‘The Ring’ Passes at 35

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Daveigh Chase, known for her role as Lilo in the 2002 Disney film Lilo & Stitch and for her performance in the 2002 horror film The Ring, has died at the age of 35, according to multiple entertainment news outlets. Chase’s death was confirmed by TMZ, which reported the news on June 18, 2026, citing unspecified “family sources.” A separate report from The New York Times noted that Chase had faced public scrutiny in recent years, including allegations of homelessness, though no official confirmation of her death’s cause has been released.

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Chase gained international recognition as the voice of Lilo in Lilo & Stitch, a role that earned her critical acclaim and cemented her status as a beloved figure in animation. Her performance in the film, which grossed over $250 million worldwide, remains one of her most enduring legacies. She also appeared in The Ring, a horror film based on the Japanese novel Ringu, where she played the character of Rachel, a role that contributed to the film’s commercial success, which exceeded $220 million at the global box office.

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The circumstances surrounding Chase’s death remain unclear. TMZ reported that she was found deceased in Los Angeles, but no official cause of death has been disclosed. A separate report from the New York Post cited a video allegedly showing Chase living on Skid Row, a homeless area in Los Angeles, though the authenticity of the footage has not been verified. The outlet described the video as “disturbing” and noted that it circulated on social media in the days leading up to her death.

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Chase’s career extended beyond film, with appearances in television and voice work for animated projects. She also collaborated with musician Roy Hernandez, a frequent collaborator in the late 1990s and early 2000s, though details about their professional relationship were not disclosed in recent reports. Hernandez, a producer and songwriter, was involved in Chase’s early career, including her work on the soundtrack for Lilo & Stitch.

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The entertainment industry has responded to the news with tributes and reflections on Chase’s contributions. Disney issued a statement on June 18, 2026, saying, “Daveigh Chase brought joy to audiences worldwide through her work on Lilo & Stitch. Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this difficult time.” Similar messages were shared by actors and directors who worked with Chase, though no direct quotes were made public.

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Chase’s death has reignited discussions about the challenges faced by child stars in the entertainment industry. Her career declined in the mid-2000s, and she became a subject of tabloid speculation, with reports about her personal life and financial struggles. A 2015 article in The Hollywood Reporter noted that Chase had faced “difficulties in transitioning from child stardom to adult roles,” a challenge common among actors who rise to fame at a young age.

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While no official cause of death has been released, the lack of transparency has led to questions about the circumstances of her passing. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office confirmed on June 18, 2026, that an investigation is ongoing but declined to provide further details. “We are cooperating with the family and will release information as it becomes available,” a spokesperson said.

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Chase’s legacy remains tied to her groundbreaking role in Lilo & Stitch, a film that has been celebrated for its cultural impact and animation innovation. The movie, directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois, is often cited as a modern classic, with Chase’s performance praised for its warmth and authenticity. Her work on the film’s soundtrack, including the song “I’m Not for Everyone,” also contributed to its lasting appeal.

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As the entertainment community processes the news, fans and colleagues alike are reflecting on Chase’s contributions. A tribute page on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has accumulated thousands of messages, with users sharing memories of her work and expressing condolences. One post read, “Lilo & Stitch wouldn’t be the same without her. Rest in peace, Daveigh.”

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The full details of Chase’s final days remain unknown, but her impact on pop culture endures. Her role in Lilo & Stitch continues to resonate with audiences, and her story serves as a reminder of the complexities of fame and the importance of mental health support for those in the public eye. As investigations into her death progress, the focus remains on honoring her legacy and the contributions she made to the entertainment industry.