Actress Melissa Gilbert mourns the death of her former child co-star Daveigh Chase, 35, who died on June 16. Multiple outlets report that Gilbert’s tribute describes Chase’s final years as marked by a long battle with drugs, homelessness, and health complications, and that she attributes her death to AIDS and malnutrition. Gilbert reflects on her own experience as a child performer and says she believes Chase’s struggles illustrate risks faced by young actors. She urges parents and guardians to think carefully before placing children into the entertainment industry, including ensuring their children have a stable, well-rounded life outside work and access to appropriate care. Outlets also note Gilbert references working relationships from their time together and, in her public comments, criticizes what she calls irresponsible “stage parenting” or “stage parents.” While the reports focus on her personal remarks and advocacy, they consistently present Chase’s death, the account of her struggles, and Gilbert’s call for increased protection and oversight of child performers.