rights
"The Ring" & "Lilo & Stitch" star Daveigh Chase passed away due to AIDS
By Alex Bollinger at LGBTQ Nation
· July 14, 2026
· 3 min read
Daveigh Chase, the actress best known for being the voice of Lilo in Disney's Lilo & Stitch and the creepy girl in the 2002 blockbuster, The Ring, passed away last month at age 35 from complications related to AIDS. The LA County Medical Examiner's office announced in June that Chase died on June 16
Key takeaway The LA County Medical Examiner's office announced in June that Chase died on June 16 due to AIDS, them reported.
Why this matters
The passing of Daveigh Chase due to AIDS-related complications highlights the ongoing struggle with HIV in the US, despite medical advancements making it a manageable condition. With an estimated 1.2 million people living with HIV, the fact that deaths from AIDS have become rare underscores the importance of access to treatment and care. However, the 4,296 HIV-related deaths in 2024, as reported by the CDC, indicate that there is still work to be done. Chase's case also raises concerns about the intersection of substance use and HIV, as the coroner's report listed the use of controlled substances as a significant condition. The National LGBTQ Task Force and other organizations continue to provide resources and support for those affected by HIV and AIDS, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care and awareness. As the LGBTQ+ community mourns the loss of Chase, it is a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to address the epidemic and ensure that those living with HIV receive the necessary treatment and support.
About this story
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Category: rights ·
Published: July 14, 2026 ·
Source: LGBTQ Nation ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Daveigh Chase, the actress best known for being the voice of Lilo in Disney's Lilo & Stitch and the creepy girl in the 2002 blockbuster, The Ring, passed away last month at age 35 from complications related to AIDS. The LA County Medical Examiner's office announced in June that Chase died on June 16
When was this published? This article was first published on July 14, 2026 by LGBTQ Nation and curated for LGBTQ News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Alex Bollinger at LGBTQ Nation. To learn more about how LGBTQ News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more rights coverage from LGBTQ News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .