Daveigh Chase, the Terrifying Samara of The Ring, Dies at 35
Actress Daveigh Chase, renowned for her chilling performance as Samara Morgan in the horror film The Ring, has died at the age of 35. The former child star, who also lent her voice to Disney’s animated darling Lilo in Lilo & Stitch, succumbed to sepsis following a bout of meningitis, according to her long‑time manager John Ryan Jr.
Ryan confirmed that Chase had been admitted to a Los Angeles hospital for malnourishment before her death. The 4‑year‑old actor began her career filming voice work in Las Vegas, eventually securing her first Hollywood role at age 7 in the sitcom Sabrina the Teenage Witch. She moved to Hollywood, where her career blossomed with roles in Donnie Darko, Big Love, and the iconic creep‑scream of Samara.
Chase’s breakout as Samara earned her the MTV Movie Award for Best Villain in 2003, and she continued to pursue independent projects after stepping away from mainstream studio films. Her voice work in Lilo & Stitch garnered an Annie Award for Best Voice Acting, and she returned to the character in several spin‑offs.
Although her on‑screen presence was at times aloof and devoted to quieter, lower‑profile opportunities, her impact on horror and animation remains profound. Her attorney also noted a history of legal run‑ins, including drug possession charges and a joy‑ride incident, but that did not detract from the memorable roles she delivered.
Chase’s passing marks a tragic loss for the entertainment community. She leaves behind fans and colleagues who remember her as a talented, enigmatic performer who defied the Hollywood glare in favor of storytelling quietness, a contrast that made her all the more memorable.
