US actress Kaylee Hottle, who starred in the Godzilla vs Kong film series, has died in a car crash at the age of 18. Hottle, who was deaf, played the young orphan Jia in the 2021 blockbuster and later reprised the role in the 2024 sequel Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.
Her father, Joshua Hottle, posted a video statement on Facebook in American Sign Language to confirm details of her death. Police officers in Frederick, Maryland, said "excessive speed" was believed to be a factor in the single-vehicle crash on Tuesday morning.
The Texas School for the Deaf, where Hottle had studied, said it was sharing the news with "profound sadness" and asked people to respect the family's privacy and not speculate about the crash.
"Our hearts are with Kaylee's family, friends, classmates, and everyone who knew and loved her during this incredibly difficult time," said a statement posted on Instagram, external.
Warner Bros, which distributed the popular monster films, also paid tribute to the actress in a post on X, alongside a photo of her.
Frederick County Sheriff's Office said deputies were called to the scene of the crash in Ijamsville at about 02:50 local time. Police said a 19-year-old driver was taken to hospital to be treated for "non life-threatening" injuries, while a second passenger declined help at the scene.
Hottle appeared in Godzilla vs Kong alongside Hollywood stars including Alexander Skarsgard, Millie Bobby Brown, Rebecca Hall, Dan Stevens and other Hollywood stars. Her role in the 2024 sequel earned her a Saturn Award nomination for best younger performer in a film.
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