Daveigh Chase, Star of The Ring and Lilo & Stitch, Dead at 35

Daveigh Chase, known for her roles in films like Donnie Darko and Spirited Away, died June 16 at 35, according to her boyfriend Roy Hernandez.

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Daveigh Chase's loved ones are mourning a tragic loss.

The Ring star died June 16 at age 35 following a battle with meningitis and a blood infection, her boyfriend Roy Hernandez confirmed to TMZ.

According to Hernandez, Chase's blood infection had developed into sepsis, with her organs ultimately shutting down. He also noted that the actress—who voiced Lilo in 2002's Lilo & Stitch—had also been admitted to a hospital earlier in the month due to malnutrition.

Hernandez shared a glimpse into Chase's health battle shortly before her death.

"My girlfriend has always been a light in my life," he wrote on his GoFundMe. "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," he continued. "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."

However, he noted that Chase's health began to decline quickly.

"Daveigh was diagnosed with meningitis and several serious blood infections," he added. "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," Hernandez wrote. "Now, more than ever, I want to give her that sense of home and peace in her final days."

Donato Sardella/WireImage

Chase began her acting career at age 8 with a minor role in Sabrina the Teenage Witch before going on to star in projects like Donnie Darko and Big Love. She last appeared in 2016's American Romance alongside Nolan Gerard Funk and Jack Goes Home with Nikki Reed before stepping out of the spotlight.

Looking back at her career, the actress previously shared what she had hoped her legacy would be.

"I just want to make something that I love and people will respect," she told Interview Magazine in 2009. "I want to do things that will change someone's life, not something they'll forget about tomorrow."

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