Kaylee Hottle, who made her film debut as a young teen in 2021’s Godzilla vs. Kong and reprised the role of Jia in 2024’s Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, has died. The 18-year-old actor, who was deaf like her character, delivered nuanced performances that stood out in movies mostly focused on giant monsters. Representation isn’t always something that’s foregrounded in Hollywood blockbusters, but Hottle helped show why it’s so important to include.
The news was widely reported in Deadline and other outlets and confirmed by Hottle’s father, who is also deaf, in a Facebook livestream using American Sign Language. The Texas School for the Deaf, where Hottle was a senior, also shared a memorial notice that referenced the Maryland car accident that Hottle was involved in.
“Our hearts are with Kaylee’s family, friends, classmates, and everyone who knew and loved her during this incredibly difficult time,” the school wrote in part. “At this time, we have very limited information and ask that everyone respect the privacy of Kaylee’s family and refrain from sharing or speculating about the circumstances surrounding the accident.”
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