Actor Daveigh Chase, renowned for voicing Lilo in Disney’s popular animated film “Lilo & Stitch,” passed away at 35. The unfortunate event occurred this week in Los Angeles due to complications from meningitis and a blood infection, as confirmed by her father, John David Schwallier. Chase had been living with her boyfriend near the hospital where she eventually succumbed to her illness after experiencing homelessness.
Her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, disclosed to TMZ that Chase had been hospitalized since early June for malnutrition treatment. Beyond her breakthrough role in “Lilo & Stitch” from 2002, she lent her voice to various spinoffs of the film and also voiced the lead character in Hayao Miyzaki’s acclaimed animated movie “Spirited Away.”
Hailing from Las Vegas, Chase appeared in numerous film and TV projects, including roles in “Donnie Darko” alongside Jake Gyllenhaal and as the antagonist in the Hollywood remake of “The Ring” opposite Naomi Watts. She received the 2002 Annie Award for best young artist for her work in “Lilo & Stitch” and the 2003 MTV Movie Award for best villain for her performance in “The Ring.”
Chase’s acting portfolio encompassed a recurring role in all five seasons of the HBO series “Big Love” and guest appearances in shows like “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 her during her hospitalization, highlighting her challenging past and the pursuit of a safe and content life together. The campaign garnered over $4,000 US, with substantial contributions pouring in within the first day of her passing.