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Jun 18, 20261
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Actress Davi Chayz, Known for 'The Ring,' Dies at 35 from Meningitis and Sepsis
Actress Davi Chayz, famous for portraying Samara in the 2002 horror film 'The Ring,' died on June 16, 2026, at age 35 from meningitis and sepsis caused by blood infections. Her boyfriend announced her death after her condition rapidly became critical.
Quick Facts
Who
Davi Chayz
What
Actress died from meningitis and sepsis
When
June 16, 2026 (death date)
Where
United States
- Actress died from meningitis and sepsis
- Severe blood infections developed into sepsis
- Boyfriend launched fundraiser for medical treatment
- Played Samara in 'The Ring'
- Voiced Lilo in 'Lilo & Stitch'
Davi Chayz, the actress best known for playing the young girl Samara in Gore Verbinski's 2002 horror film 'The Ring,' died on June 16, 2026, at age 35. Her boyfriend, Roy Hernandez, announced her death, explaining that she succumbed to meningitis and severe blood infections that developed into sepsis. According to Hernandez, Chayz had been recently diagnosed with meningitis and multiple serious blood infections, and her condition rapidly deteriorated to critical status. Days before her death, Hernandez launched a fundraiser to support her medical treatment.
Beyond her iconic role in 'The Ring' and its 2005 sequel, Chayz had a diverse career spanning film and television. She provided the voice for Lilo in the animated feature 'Lilo & Stitch' and appeared in films including 'Donnie Darko' and 'Beethoven V.' Her television credits included recurring roles in series such as 'Sabrina: The Teenage Witch' and 'ER,' among others.
Topics
Why This Matters
The sudden death of Davi Chayz underscores the serious and unpredictable nature of bacterial infections like meningitis and sepsis, which can progress rapidly from diagnosis to critical condition. Her passing serves as a stark reminder of the importance of early medical intervention and the vulnerability of individuals—even those in the public eye—to life-threatening infections. For fans and the entertainment industry, her loss marks the end of a career that spanned iconic horror and family entertainment roles, spanning nearly two decades.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2002
Wire'The Ring' film released, Davi Chayz plays Samara
Jan 1, 2005
Wire'The Ring 2' released
Jun 16, 2026
WireDavi Chayz dies at age 35
Jun 18, 2026
WireDeath announced by boyfriend Roy Hernandez; reported by Deadline and TMZ