Kaylee Hottle, an actress known for her role as the deaf girl Jia in the films 'Godzilla vs. Kong' and 'Godzilla X Kong: New Empire,' has died in a car accident at the age of 18.
According to the Associated Press, Hottle was killed in a traffic accident early on July 22 in Ijamsville, Maryland, as reported by the Frederick County Sheriff's Office.
The sheriff's office stated that Hottle was a passenger in a vehicle that left the road and struck a drainage ditch around 3 a.m. One of the two other passengers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to the hospital, while the other did not require treatment. Hottle was airlifted to a hospital but reportedly died before arrival.
Authorities are investigating the accident, considering speeding as a possible factor, according to the AP.
Following the news of her passing, Hottle's family expressed their grief on social media. Her father, Joshua Hottle, shared in a video, "I am grateful for the 18 years I had with my daughter, but I wish we had more time together." He also addressed the 19-year-old driver of the vehicle, saying, "I forgive you, but don’t let this accident ruin the rest of your life." Her mother, Ketch Hottle, added, "I feel Kaylee is still with us."
Hottle was a deaf actress who used American Sign Language as her first language, and her entire family is also deaf. She made a strong impression on audiences with her portrayal of Jia, a girl who communicates with the giant monster Kong through sign language, in 'Godzilla vs. Kong,' released in 2021, and its sequel, 'Godzilla X Kong: New Empire,' set to release in 2024.
Tributes from fellow actors have poured in. Millie Bobby Brown, who starred alongside Hottle in the 'Godzilla' series, wrote on Instagram, "I am heartbroken to hear this news. Kaylee, I will miss you deeply." Academy Award-winning deaf actress Marlee Matlin expressed, "May Kaylee's beauty and talent be remembered forever," while Troy Kotsur, an actor from the film 'CODA,' remarked, "This news reminds us not to take time for granted," extending his condolences to Hottle's family.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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