'Godzilla vs. Kong' Actress Kaylee Hottle Dies at 18 After Reported Car Accident

Her father confirmed the news, and the Texas School for the Deaf shared a tribute following the incident, reports say.

Bad news from father
Kaylee’s father, Joshua Hottle, reportedly announced her death on a Facebook livestream in American Sign Language. TMZ later confirmed the news. Fans and people who work in the entertainment industry are still reeling from the announcement.

Texas School for the Deaf celebrates
The Texas School for the Deaf posted a statement on social media mourning Kaylee’s death. "She died in a car accident in Frederick, Maryland," the school said in a statement offering condolences to her family, friends, classmates and all those she touched. The school has requested privacy for the family as they grieve.

Best known for her role as Jia  
Her most notable work is playing Jia, the deaf orphan who shares a special bond with Kong in Godzilla vs. Kong and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire. Her work received praise for its sincerity and emotional richness. She was a fan favourite and was hailed as a big step for representation of deaf actors in mainstream films.

Fans weep for the loss of young talent  
Fans and members of the deaf community took to social media to pay tribute to the news. Kaylee’s legacy is more than her acting; it inspires young deaf actors to see themselves in front of the camera, for many.