Melissa Gilbert urges stronger parenting after child star Daveigh Chase's death

Actress Melissa Gilbert posted on Instagram that she observed early signs of pressure from parents while working with Daveigh Chase on a series pilot more than two decades ago. Gilbert said Chase appeared "bright both in countenance and in mind" but also sensed a need to perform for her parents, noting that many child actors thrive when they have "solid, wise parenting."

"When a parent or parents lose sight of who THEY are, of what their true responsibility is, and their lives revolve solely around their little star child, well, that’s where the trouble begins," Gilbert wrote.

Gilbert cautioned prospective parents of child performers to ensure their children pursue acting for the right reasons, receive regular financial oversight, and maintain a balanced life outside the industry. She urged them to remember Chase's story to prevent similar outcomes.

Los Angeles County officials later confirmed that Chase died on June 16 at age 35 from AIDS and complications related to chronic polysubstance use. Her boyfriend and father described the death as resulting from infections and septic issues. Chase began acting at age seven, later voicing Lilo in the 2002 animated film "Lilo & Stitch" and appearing in "The Ring" the same year.