Estate Battle Erupts Over Late Actress Daveigh Chase’s Assets

The conflict centers on a declaration filed by Ryan, who claims Chase had long been estranged from her mother, Cathy Chase. According to court documents, Ryan alleged that the actress sought legal emancipation in the mid-2000s, citing concerns that her mother was mismanaging her finances and jeopardizing her well-being. These allegations remain unproven in court, and Cathy Chase faces no criminal charges related to the estate.

John Schwallier, the actress’s father, previously petitioned the court to reject his ex-wife’s appointment, requesting an neutral administrator instead. This disagreement is the latest in a series of family tensions following the actress’s death on June 16, 2026, at age 35. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner identified AIDS as the primary cause of death, exacerbated by chronic polysubstance use.

Beyond the probate dispute, the estate has been the subject of controversy regarding unauthorized fundraising. Ryan previously warned the public against donating to a GoFundMe campaign, asserting that the estate possessed sufficient funds to cover cremation expenses. As the court weighs the appointment of an administrator, the battle highlights the fractured relationships surrounding the former child star, who gained prominence for her roles in Lilo & Stitch and The Ring.