Melissa Gilbert mourns Daveigh Chase, warns of parental pressure on child actors

Actress Melissa Gilbert posted a tribute to the late Daveigh Chase, who died at 35 from AIDS complications and chronic polysubstance use. Gilbert recalled working with Chase on a pilot more than two decades ago and noted the actress’s talent and professionalism, adding that she sensed a pressure to perform for her parents.

"Child stardom, in itself, is not a guarantee of dysfunction. However, 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, a former child star herself, warned prospective parents of child performers to ensure their motivations are appropriate, to monitor earnings, and to provide a balanced life outside the industry. She urged parents to remember Chase’s story to prevent similar outcomes.

The Los Angeles Coroner’s Office confirmed AIDS as the primary cause of death, with chronic polysubstance use listed as a secondary factor. Chase’s boyfriend initially reported a different medical condition, and public records show she had experienced homelessness and struggled with addiction. Chase was known for voicing Lilo in the "Lilo & Stitch" franchise and for roles in "The Ring" and the "Donnie Darko" sequels.