Daveigh Chase’s dad, John Schwallier, is speaking out after her death.
Schwallier told The California Post on Monday, June 29, that Chase’s explanation for death “doesn’t surprise” him, adding that “it’s what it’s” and that “it’s something you sometimes must expect with the approach to life she was living.”
Schwallier shared that Chase’s cremated stays went to her mother, Cathy, and he had not seen his daughter since she was about 6 years old. Nevertheless, Schwallier said they spoke on the phone during her childhood.
Her father added that he would pursue going to court so as to get a few of Chase’s stays, with a plan to place them in a home made box in his home within the Philippines.
“I had an empty feeling inside for not being together with her for all these years,” he said.
Chase died earlier this month at age 35. Us Weekly exclusively confirmed on Monday via the Los Angeles health worker that the actress died of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) with other significant conditions including chronic polysubstance use.
Chase’s boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, confirmed her death to TMZ earlier this month and shared that she had died after battling meningitis and an infection in her blood that led to sepsis. Prior to Chase’s death, Hernandez created a GoFundMe and opened up about her health journey.
“Daveigh Chase, my girlfriend, has at all times been a light-weight in my life. Many individuals know her as a talented childhood actor from Lilo & Stitch, Spirited Away and Donnie Darko, but behind the scenes, she’s faced greater than her share of hardship,” he wrote within the fundraiser’s description. “After a difficult childhood and a painful falling out together with her family, Daveigh was bullied and struggled to search out safety and happiness in downtown L.A. Once we met, I promised to guard her and provides her the love and luxury she deserved. Together, we found moments of happiness and hope.”
Former child star Daveigh Chase, the voice behind Disney’s beloved Lilo in Lilo & Stitch and the haunting Samara in The Ring, has died at 35. Chase’s boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, confirmed the news to TMZ on June 17, 2026, revealing that the late actress had been battling meningitis and a serious blood infection prior to […]
Hernandez shared that Chase had been “recently” diagnosed with meningitis and battled “several serious blood infections.”
“Her condition has turn out to be critical, and the doctors have told me she may not have much time left,” he continued. “All she ever wanted was a spot where we could live together, feel secure and be blissful. Now, greater than ever, I need to present her that sense of home and peace in her final days.”
He continued, “I understand all of us undergo things, but if you happen to will help, I might be really grateful for anything. And if you happen to can only give a prayer, I’ll take that too. Thanks for considering helping us during this difficult time.”