Daveigh Chase, The Ring and Lilo and Stitch Actress, Dead at 35
Actress and voice star Devyn Chase, beloved by generations of fans as the voice of Lilo in Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, has died at the age of 35.
According to a GoFundMe page created by her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, Chase passed away after battling meningitis and multiple severe blood infections following weeks of hospitalization. In a heartfelt tribute, Hernandez described her as a source of love, resilience, and hope, recalling the happiness they shared together despite difficult circumstances.
Chase began her career at just eight years old with an appearance on Sabrina the Teenage Witch before quickly establishing herself as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable child actors. She earned critical attention as Jake Gyllenhaal’s younger sister in Donnie Darko and delivered a chilling performance as Samara, the haunting antagonist in The Ring. The role became a cultural phenomenon and earned her the MTV Movie Award for Best Villain in 2003.
Despite becoming famous for playing one of horror’s most terrifying characters, Chase often spoke about enjoying the opportunity to portray complex roles rarely offered to young performers. Her talent and versatility allowed her to move effortlessly between live-action films and voice acting, where she found another passion.
For many fans, however, Chase will always be remembered as the spirited and unforgettable voice of Lilo. Her performance in Disney’s Lilo & Stitch introduced audiences to a character who was imperfect, quirky, and deeply relatable. Through Lilo, Chase helped deliver one of Disney’s most enduring messages: “Ohana means family, and family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.”
She also lent her voice to the English-language version of the Oscar-winning animated film Spirited Away, further cementing her place in the hearts of animation fans worldwide.
From horror icon to beloved Disney heroine, Devyn Chase built a remarkable career that touched audiences across generations. Though her life was tragically cut short, her performances continue to resonate, ensuring that her legacy—and her voice—will never be forgotten.