Millie Bobby Brown leads tributes after 'Godzilla' star Kaylee Hottle dies aged 18

Millie Bobby Brown, Rebecca Hall and Marlee Matlin paid tribute as 'Godzilla' actress Kaylee Hottle died in car crash

Millie Bobby Brown has led tributes to her former Godzilla vs. Kong co-star Kaylee Hottle following the young actress's death in a car crash in Maryland, USA. Hottle was 18.

Brown, 22, shared an emotional message on Instagram after learning of Hottle's passing. The pair appeared together in the 2021 blockbuster Godzilla vs. Kong, where Hottle made her acting debut.

"I'm so devastated to hear this. You will be deeply missed Kaylee," Brown wrote alongside a photo of Hottle from the film.

Hottle, who was deaf, was just nine years old when she portrayed Jia, a deaf orphaned child, in Godzilla vs. Kong. She later returned to the role in the 2024 sequel, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.

Rebecca Hall, who starred alongside Hottle in the Monsterverse films, also shared a tribute on Instagram.

Posting several behind-the-scenes photos from the set, Hall wrote, "Devastated to hear this news. My heart goes out to your family. You will be missed Kaylee."

Oscar-winning actress Marlee Matlin also honoured Hottle's memory on social media. Reflecting on the loss, Matlin wrote, "I am absolutely gutted about the passing of sweet Kaylee Hottle. May her beauty and talent be a memory for eternity."

Legendary Pictures, the studio behind the Godzilla films, released a statement expressing its condolences following Hottle's death.

"We are devastated by the tragic passing of Kaylee Hottle," the statement read.

"Through her unforgettable portrayal of Jia, Kaylee brought extraordinary heart, humanity, and light to Godzilla, Kong, and the Monsterverse. She was a cherished member of our film family, and her kindness, warmth, and remarkable talent touched everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her. Our hearts are with her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her during this unimaginably difficult time."