Actor Daveigh Chase, renowned for voicing Lilo in Disney’s beloved animated movie “Lilo & Stitch,” passed away at 35 this week. She succumbed to complications from meningitis and a blood infection at a Los Angeles hospital on Tuesday, as confirmed by her father, John David Schwallier. Chase, who had been homeless and residing with her boyfriend near the hospital, had been hospitalized since early June due to malnutrition, according to her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez.
Apart from her breakout role in “Lilo & Stitch” in 2002, Chase lent her voice to various spinoffs of the film and also provided the English voice for the lead character in Hayao Miyazaki’s acclaimed animated film “Spirited Away.” The Las Vegas-born actress appeared in multiple film and TV projects, such as playing Jake Gyllenhaal’s younger sister in “Donnie Darko” and portraying the antagonist Samara opposite Naomi Watts in the 2002 remake of the Japanese horror film “The Ring.”
Chase received accolades for her work, winning the 2002 Annie Award for best young artist for her performance in “Lilo & Stitch” and the 2003 MTV Movie Award for best villain for her role in “The Ring.” She also had recurring roles in the HBO drama series “Big Love” and made guest appearances on several shows including “ER,” “Touched by an Angel,” “Family Law,” and “Without a Trace.” Her last known screen appearance was in the 2016 film “American Romance.”
Before her demise, Chase’s boyfriend initiated a GoFundMe campaign to aid in her hospital expenses. Detailing her struggles, he mentioned how they sought solace and happiness together after her turbulent past, emphasizing her desire for a safe and joyful life. The campaign raised over $4,000 US within the initial 24 hours following her passing.