Skip to content The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Daveigh Chase, the former child star best known for voicing Lilo in Disney’s beloved Lilo & Stitch and for her unforgettable role as Samara Morgan in The Ring. Chase died at the age of 35, according to reports confirmed by family members and those close to her.
For millions of fans, Daveigh Chase represented two very different but equally memorable parts of childhood and popular culture. She brought warmth, humor, and heart to the character of Lilo, while also delivering one of the most chilling performances in modern horror cinema as Samara, the mysterious girl from the cursed videotape in The Ring. Her remarkable talent allowed her to leave a lasting impression on audiences at an age when most children are only beginning to discover their interests.
News of her passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans around the world, many expressing shock that someone who played such an important role in their childhood memories is gone so young.
Born in 1990, Daveigh Chase entered the entertainment industry at a young age. Her natural ability quickly caught the attention of casting directors, and she soon began appearing in commercials and television productions. What set her apart was her versatility. She possessed the rare ability to excel in both live-action performances and voice acting, making her one of the most recognizable young performers of the early 2000s.
Her breakthrough year came in 2002, a year that would forever cement her place in entertainment history.
That year, she voiced Lilo Pelekai in Disney’s animated hit Lilo & Stitch. The movie became an instant classic, celebrated for its emotional story about family, friendship, and belonging. Lilo’s quirky personality, curiosity, and heartfelt vulnerability resonated with audiences of all ages.
Daveigh’s voice performance was a crucial part of the film’s success. She brought authenticity to the character, helping transform Lilo into one of Disney’s most beloved protagonists. The movie’s message that “ohana means family” continues to inspire audiences more than two decades later.
Remarkably, that same year, Chase delivered a performance that showcased a completely different side of her talent.
In The Ring, she portrayed Samara Morgan, a character who would become one of horror cinema’s most recognizable figures. With minimal dialogue and an eerie screen presence, Chase helped create a character that haunted audiences long after they left the theater.
The image of Samara emerging from a television screen became one of the defining moments of early 2000s horror films. Her performance earned widespread recognition and demonstrated a level of skill unusual for someone so young.