Kaylee Hottle, the Korean American Deaf actress known for playing Jia in the Godzilla franchise, has died in a car crash. She was 18.
According to U.S. reports on July 21, Hottle was involved in a single-vehicle accident in Frederick County, Maryland.
The car, driven by a 19-year-old man, reportedly left a two-lane road and struck a drainage structure. Authorities are investigating speed as a possible factor. The driver reportedly suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Born into a Deaf family, Hottle used American Sign Language as her first language. Her mother is reportedly Korean American and was adopted as a child.
Hottle rose to international fame as Jia in 2021’s Godzilla vs. Kong. Her character shared a special bond with Kong and communicated with him through sign language. She reprised the role in 2024’s Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire.
Away from acting, she attended the Texas School for the Deaf and competed in track and field.
Tributes poured in from Hollywood and the Deaf community. Millie Bobby Brown said she was “so devastated” to hear the news, while Oscar winner Marlee Matlin remembered Hottle’s beauty and talent.
Her CODA star Troy Kotsur and Alaqua Cox, who was set to work with Hottle on an upcoming project, also offered condolences.
The Texas School for the Deaf shared a statement asking the public to respect the family’s privacy and avoid speculation surrounding the accident.
Hottle’s father, Joshua Hottle, also posted an emotional tribute. “I am so grateful for the 18 years we had together,” he wrote. “I only wish we had more.”
He also addressed the 19-year-old driver, reportedly writing, “I forgive you. Do not let this destroy the rest of your life.”
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