Daveigh Chase, the voice of Lilo in Disney's "Lilo & Stitch" and the terrified teenager in Gore Verbinski's "The Ring," died from complications related to severe burns, according to a Los Angeles County medical examiner's report. Chase passed away at a hospital following the injury.
The actress, who built a career spanning animation, horror, and television, became best known for her dual vocal performance as the mischievous alien Stitch alongside Lilo in the 2002 animated hit. Her deadpan delivery became iconic among a generation of Disney viewers. Before that breakthrough role, Chase appeared as Samara Morgan in "The Ring," the 2002 American remake of the Japanese horror film that terrified audiences and became a cultural phenomenon.
Chase's voice work extended beyond Lilo & Stitch. She lent her voice to other animated projects and appeared in live-action television series throughout the 2000s and beyond. Her performances demonstrated range across genres, from the whimsy of children's animation to the psychological terror of horror cinema.
The revelation of her cause of death adds clarity to her passing, though details surrounding the circumstances of the burn injury remain limited. Chase's death marks the loss of an actress who contributed significantly to early 2000s popular culture, particularly in defining the vocal identity of one of Disney's most beloved characters.
Her work in "Lilo & Stitch" has proven enduring, introducing her voice to millions of viewers through theatrical releases, streaming platforms, and television broadcasts over two decades. The film's exploration of family and acceptance resonated with audiences, cementing Chase's contribution to the Disney canon.