Melissa Gilbert has paid tribute to her former co-star Daveigh Chase, who died on June 16 at age 35, while also criticizing the role of "stage parents" in the lives of child actors. In an Instagram post, Gilbert recalled working with Chase over 20 years ago on an unaired TV pilot, describing her as "bubbly, sweet and professional."
However, Gilbert noted a perceived pressure on Chase to perform for her parents. As a former child star herself, Gilbert contrasted her own experience, attributing her positive outcome to "really solid, wise parenting." She expressed heartbreak over Chase's death, stating it was "so much more" than just substance addiction disorder, which was listed as a contributing factor to her passing.
Chase's cause of death was revealed to be AIDS, with chronic polysubstance use cited as a contributing factor. According to her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, Chase was diagnosed with meningitis and several serious blood infections that led to sepsis. In the days preceding her death, a GoFundMe was created to help Chase find comfort and peace as her condition became critical.
Gilbert urged parents to consider the motivations behind allowing their children to enter the entertainment industry. She emphasized ensuring that a child genuinely wants to act and has a balanced life with friends and responsibilities outside of their career. Gilbert concluded her tribute by asking parents to remember Chase's story to prevent similar tragedies.
Chase was widely known for her roles as the voice of Lilo in Disney's "Lilo & Stitch" and for her portrayal of a terrifying young girl in the horror film "The Ring," for which she won an MTV Movie Award for Best Villain.
Her mother, Cathy Chase, expressed devastation over her daughter's death, describing an overwhelming grief. Chase had reportedly been living near Los Angeles' Skid Row prior to her passing.
If you or someone you care about is affected by substance use issues, SAMHSA's National Helpline is available at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).