Kaylee Hottle, la jeune actrice sourde de "Godzilla contre Kong", est morte à l'âge de 18 ans

Kaylee Hottle, the 18-year-old deaf actress best known for her role in Godzilla vs. Kong, has died following a traffic accident in Frederick, Maryland. Her father confirmed the tragic news through a video posted on Facebook, which was translated into American Sign Language (ASL). The message, titled “I’m about to get on a flight I never would have wanted to get on,” reflects the family’s communication style, as all members are deaf. The incident occurred on July 21, 2026, during a routine trip. According to local authorities, Hottle was a passenger in a vehicle that collided with another car on a highway near Frederick. Emergency responders arrived quickly but were unable to save her. The cause of the crash is under investigation, though initial reports suggest it was a high-speed collision. Details regarding the other driver remain unclear, pending further police inquiry. Hottle had been studying at the Texas School for the Deaf, where she was well-regarded among peers and faculty. The school issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over her passing, stating, “Our hearts are with the family of Kaylee, her friends, classmates, and everyone who knew and loved her during this incredibly difficult time.” The institution praised her dedication to her studies and her passion for acting. Her breakthrough came with her role as Jia in Godzilla vs. Kong (2021), where she played a deaf orphan who could communicate with Kong. To prepare for the role, actors Rebecca Hall and Alexander Skarsgård learned ASL to interact with Hottle on set. This effort highlighted the importance of accessibility in film production and earned praise from critics and fans alike. Hottle reprised her role in the sequel, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024), showcasing her growing talent and commitment to her craft. In recognition of her performance, Hottle received a nomination for Best Young Actor at the Saturn Awards. Her work in both films demonstrated her ability to bring depth and authenticity to complex roles, particularly those involving deaf representation. She became one of the few deaf actresses to gain widespread recognition in mainstream Hollywood, paving the way for future generations. Friends and colleagues have expressed their grief and admiration for Hottle’s resilience and talent. Many have shared memories of her kindness and determination, noting how she used her platform to advocate for greater inclusion in the entertainment industry. Social media has been flooded with messages of support, with many highlighting her impact beyond her performances. The film industry is mourning the loss of a rising star whose career was still in its early stages. While no official announcement has been made regarding tribute events or memorials, some industry figures have suggested that her legacy will continue to inspire others, especially within the deaf community. As the investigation into the accident continues, the focus remains on honoring Hottle’s life and contributions to both cinema and advocacy.