Daveigh Chase, best known for her roles in Lilo & Stitch, The Ring, and Spirited Away, has passed away at 35. TMZ confirmed the news through her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez.
Chase had been hospitalized in Los Angeles earlier this month. While initial reports pointed to malnutrition, Hernandez shared in a GoFundMe published on June 16 that she had developed meningitis and serious blood infections. At the time the page went live, he was hoping to raise funds to support her in what he described as her final days.
She got her start as a child actor and became recognizable to a generation of kids as the voice of Lilo in Disney’s Lilo & Stitch and Chihiro in the English dub of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. Her live-action work included a memorable and unsettling turn in The Ring and a role in the cult film Donnie Darko. Despite the visibility those roles brought, her life away from the screen was difficult.
In his own words, Hernandez wrote:
“Daveigh Chase, my girlfriend, has always been a light in my life. Many people know her as a talented childhood actor from ‘Lilo & Stitch,’ ‘Spirited Away,’ and ‘Donnie Darko.’ But behind the scenes, she’s faced more than her share of hardship. After a difficult childhood and a painful falling out with her family, Daveigh was bullied and struggled to find safety and happiness in downtown LA. When we met, I promised to protect her and give her the love and comfort she deserved. Together, we found moments of happiness and hope.
Recently, everything changed. Daveigh was diagnosed with meningitis and several serious blood infections. Her condition has become critical, and the doctors have told me she may not have much time left. All she ever wanted was a place where we could live together, feel safe, and be happy. Now, more than ever, I want to give her that sense of home and peace in her final days. I understand we all go through things, but if you can help, I will be really grateful for anything. And if you can only give a prayer, I will take that too. Thank you for considering helping us during this difficult time.”
Our thoughts are with Roy and everyone who loved her.
