Death of Former Child Actor Daveigh Chase Attributed to AIDS

Former child actor Daveigh Chase passed away on June 16 due to AIDS, reported the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office. Chase, aged 35, was a renowned voice actor known for her role as Lilo in Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch.’ She also gained fame for her portrayal of Samara in the horror film ‘The Ring’ in 2002.

Records from the medical examiner mentioned her last name as Schwallier. They also noted ‘chronic polysubstance abuse’ as a significant condition. Her death occurred in a Los Angeles hospital. Her father, John David Schwallier, revealed to The New York Times that she died from complications of bacterial meningitis and a blood infection.

Chase’s life was marked by personal struggles. She experienced homelessness in Los Angeles, together with her boyfriend. Her father disclosed that she had been battling drug addiction since age 13. The Times reported that she had become estranged from her divorced parents.

“I know with her lifestyle that was probably the conclusion so I’m not surprised,”

Chase’s father commented about the cause of death. He expressed anguish over her tragic demise, stating:

“It would’ve been nice for all of you to find her and try and help her; that would’ve been a nicer story than this.”

Chase began her career in entertainment at a young age. She auditioned for the character Lilo at 8 years old. In 2002, she earned an MTV Movie Award for Best Villain for her role in ‘The Ring.’ Additionally, she voiced a lead character in the animated film ‘Spirited Away’ in 2001. Her movie credits include ‘Donnie Darko,’ and she appeared in the television series ‘Oliver Beene’ in 2003.

Born in Las Vegas, Chase grew up in Albany, Oregon. Her involvement in performing arts started at age 3, focusing on singing and dancing.