Kaylee Hottle, the young deaf actor best known for playing Jia in Godzilla vs. Kong and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, has died at the age of 18 following a car crash in Maryland. According to The Associated Press, the accident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday in Ijamsville, Frederick County.
The vehicle left the roadway and struck a culvert. Hottle, who was travelling as a passenger, was airlifted to a trauma centre but died before reaching the hospital. Police believe excessive speed may have contributed to the crash, although the investigation remains ongoing.
Family confirms heartbreaking news
Hottle’s father, Joshua Hottle, confirmed her death through an emotional Facebook livestream conducted in American Sign Language (ASL). According to international media reports, he said he was travelling to Maryland after receiving the devastating news. The Texas School for the Deaf, where Hottle was a senior, also paid tribute, describing her death as a heartbreaking loss and offering support to students, staff and the wider community.
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A powerful voice for deaf representation
Born into a multi-generational deaf family, Kaylee Hottle made her feature film debut in 2021 with Godzilla vs. Kong. Her portrayal of Jia, a deaf orphan who shares a unique bond with Kong through sign language, earned widespread appreciation for bringing authentic deaf representation to mainstream cinema. She reprised the role in the 2024 sequel Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, receiving a Saturn Award nomination for her performance. She also appeared in an episode of Magnum P.I. and was reportedly attached to future acting projects.
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Tributes pour in from Hollywood
Following the news of her passing, fans and members of the entertainment industry expressed their grief.
Actor Millie Bobby Brown shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, writing that she was “so devastated” by the loss. Fellow actors and members of the deaf community also remembered Hottle for her warmth, talent and advocacy for greater inclusion in film and television.
Kaylee Hottle’s brief but impactful career made her a role model for young deaf performers. Her performances and advocacy helped bring greater visibility to deaf representation in Hollywood, ensuring her legacy will continue to inspire audiences around the world.
Rest in piece Kaylee Hottle, sending so much love to her family, friends and everyone who knew her 🤍 pic.twitter.com/WzIo3MuBkB
— hourly millie bobby brown (@milliehourly) July 21, 2026
FAQs
Q1. How did Kaylee Hottle die?
She died after a car crash in Ijamsville, Maryland. Police are investigating the incident.
Q2. Which role made Kaylee Hottle famous?
She was best known for playing Jia in Godzilla vs. Kong and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.
