Daveigh Chase Cause of Death: Voice of ‘Lilo’ & Actress in ‘The Ring’ Dies at 35 — Here’s What Caused Her Death

Daveigh Chase, known for Lilo & Stitch and The Ring, died at 35 after meningitis and blood infection complications. Know symptoms, cause of death, and details of her final days.

By: Sumit Kumar
Last Updated: June 18, 2026 02:04:09 IST

Daveigh Chase Death: Actress Daveigh Chase, who became famous as the voice of Lilo in Disney’s Lilo & Stitch and as the terrifying Samara Morgan in The Ring, has died at the age of 35. Her death has left fans across generations mourning a performer whose work shaped both family entertainment and modern horror films.

According to reports, Chase died on June 16 after suffering from meningitis and a serious blood infection. The infection reportedly developed into septic complications that caused multiple organs to fail. She had also been hospitalised in Los Angeles earlier this month after experiencing health problems linked to malnutrition.

Daveigh Chase Death

Former child actress Daveigh Chase, best known for voicing Lilo in Lilo & Stitch and portraying Samara Morgan in The Ring, has died at the age of 35. According to reports, Chase passed away on June 16 after suffering complications from meningitis and a severe blood infection that developed into sepsis, leading to organ failure. Her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, confirmed the cause of death and said her condition had become critical in the days before she died.

What Was Daveigh Chase’s Cause of Death?

Reports indicate that Chase was battling meningitis along with several severe blood infections. The illnesses led to sepsis, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs. Her condition reportedly worsened rapidly in the days before her death.

Her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, confirmed that meningitis and blood infections ultimately caused the complications that led to her death.

Daveigh Chase Meningitis

Meningitis is a serious medical condition that causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The illness can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other infections, with bacterial meningitis often being the most severe form. Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea, sensitivity to light, confusion, and drowsiness.

If left untreated, meningitis can lead to life-threatening complications such as brain damage, hearing loss, sepsis, organ failure, and death. Reports indicate that Daveigh Chase developed meningitis along with a severe blood infection, which reportedly led to septic complications that ultimately caused her death.

Daveigh Chase: From Disney Favourite to Horror Icon

Born in 1990, Chase built a successful acting career at a remarkably young age. She gained worldwide recognition in 2002 when she voiced Lilo Pelekai in Disney’s animated hit Lilo & Stitch. Her performance helped make the film a beloved classic and introduced her voice to millions of children and families.

The same year, she delivered one of horror cinema’s most memorable performances as Samara Morgan in The Ring. The role earned her widespread acclaim and won her the MTV Movie Award for Best Villain.

Daveigh Chase Death: Boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, Shared Emotional Message Before Her Death

In the days before Chase’s death, Hernandez launched a GoFundMe campaign to support her care and provide comfort during her illness. In the fundraiser, he reflected on the challenges she faced away from the spotlight.

“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,” the campaign read.

Hernandez also described the difficulties Chase experienced after her childhood fame. “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,” said Hernandez.

“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.”

“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.”

Meningitis Symptoms: What Signs Were Reportedly Seen in Daveigh Chase?

While detailed medical records have not been made public, reports indicate that Daveigh Chase was hospitalised before her death after suffering from meningitis and a severe blood infection. Her condition reportedly worsened due to septic complications, which can occur when an infection spreads through the bloodstream and triggers a dangerous immune response.

  • High fever
  • Severe headache
  • Stiff neck
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating
  • Extreme tiredness or drowsiness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Seizures in severe cases
  • Difficulty waking up
  • Changes in mental alertness

In Chase’s case, reports have confirmed that she was receiving hospital treatment before her death and was also dealing with malnutrition. However, medical authorities and family members have not publicly disclosed the specific meningitis symptoms she experienced. As a result, it is not possible to say with certainty which symptoms she showed before her condition became critical.

Most Popular

The Sunday Guardian is India’s fastest
growing News channel and enjoy highest
viewership and highest time spent amongst
educated urban Indians.

The Sunday Guardian is India’s fastest growing News channel and enjoy highest viewership and highest time spent amongst educated urban Indians.

© Copyright ITV Network Ltd 2025. All right reserved.