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The Ring and Lilo & Stitch actress Daveigh Chase died of Aids

BBC World · 2026-06-29

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Actress Daveigh Chase, known for her roles in "The Ring" and "Lilo & Stitch," passed away at the age of 35 on June 16, 2023, due to complications related to AIDS, as reported by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. • Why it matters: Chase's death highlights the ongoing issues of mental health and substance use within the entertainment industry, as she faced significant personal challenges, including homelessness and chronic polysubstance use prior to her passing. • What to watch next: As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues, attention may turn to discussions around mental health support for actors and the impact of fame on personal well-being, alongside ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death.

**Title: Actress Daveigh Chase Passes Away at 35 Due to AIDS-Related Complications**

**Los Angeles, CA** – Daveigh Chase, the actress known for her roles in iconic films and television series, has died at the age of 35. According to a report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, Chase passed away on June 16, 2023, from complications related to AIDS. The report also indicated that she had been experiencing "chronic polysubstance use" as a significant condition at the time of her death.

Chase's manager, John Ryan Jr., previously stated that she had succumbed to sepsis following a battle with meningitis while hospitalized in Los Angeles. Her father, John David Schwallier, revealed to the New York Times that she had been living in challenging circumstances, including a period of homelessness with her boyfriend prior to her passing.

Born on July 24, 1989, in Las Vegas, Nevada, Chase began her acting career at a young age. She landed her first Hollywood role at just four years old and secured her first television appearance at the age of seven in the popular sitcom "Sabrina the Teenage Witch." Her breakout role came in 2001 when she portrayed Samantha Darko in the cult classic "Donnie Darko."

Chase's career continued to flourish with her memorable performance as Samara Morgan in the 2002 horror film "The Ring." Her portrayal of the eerie character who crawls out of a television set earned her critical acclaim and a 2003 MTV Movie Award for Best Villain. That same year, she also voiced the character Lilo in Disney's beloved animated film "Lilo & Stitch," a role that garnered her an Annie Award for Best Voice Acting in an Animated Feature Production. She reprised this role in various spin-offs and related projects.

In addition to her film work, Chase starred in the HBO series "Big Love," which further showcased her versatility as an actress. However, she stepped back from full-time acting in 2015, marking a significant shift in her career.

Chase's passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike, reflecting on her contributions to the entertainment industry and the impact of her roles. As news of her death spreads, many are remembering her not only for her talent but also for the challenges she faced in her personal life.

The circumstances surrounding her death highlight the ongoing issues of mental health and substance use that can affect individuals in the entertainment industry. Chase's story serves as a reminder of the complexities that can accompany fame and the importance of support systems for those in the spotlight.

As the investigation into the specifics of her death remains open, the legacy of Daveigh Chase will continue through her memorable performances that have left a lasting impression on audiences around the world.

Source: BBC World
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