Millie Bobby Brown is grappling with the loss of her co-star, Kaylee Hottle, who passed away in a tragic car accident at just 18. The pair starred together in the 2021 hit movie "Godzilla vs Kong," where their on-screen chemistry left audiences captivated. Brown took to Instagram to express her grief, sharing a poignant black-and-white image of Hottle as a young girl on set, clutching a King Kong doll. "I’m so devastated to hear this," she wrote. "You will be deeply missed, Kaylee."
Hottle was a trailblazing deaf actress, known for her role as Jia in "Godzilla vs Kong" and its sequel, "Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire." Her character communicated with King Kong through sign language, a testament to Hottle's dedication to showcasing deaf representation in film. Tragically, her life was cut short when she was involved in a serious car crash, as revealed by her father in an emotional video shared online. Her father, through sign language, emphasized her passion for advocating for the deaf community and her mission to shine a light on their challenges.
“I’d like to see more deaf, young actresses get motivated when they see me on screen, and hopefully they’ll have a chance in Hollywood as well,” Hottle shared in an interview with The Houston Chronicle.
The news of Hottle's passing has sent ripples through Hollywood, with many celebrities paying tribute to her talent and spirit. Among them is Marlee Matlin, the Oscar-winning actress and a staunch advocate for the Deaf community, who shared a heartfelt message on social media. "I am absolutely gutted about the passing of sweet Kaylee Hottle. May her beauty and talent be a memory for eternity," Matlin wrote. "Such a privilege to have met Kaylee last year. Please be kind to one another. Take the time to listen to your child."
Hottle's journey began at the tender age of nine, and she was a beacon of inspiration for many within the Deaf community. Her advocacy for increased representation in Hollywood continues to resonate, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond her years.