Hayden Panettiere died on Sunday (August 16) at the age of 36. The actress was best known for her roles as Claire Bennet on NBC series Heroes, Juliette Barnes in musical drama series Nashville, and Channing Walsh in the 2005 family film Racing Stripes. But it isn't the first time the family have experienced heartbreak after the loss of a loved one, as Hayden has died just three years after her younger brother.
Brother's sudden death in 2023
Jansen Panettiere, who was also an actor, died suddenly at the age of 28 in February 2023. He worked on several TV projects as a child including Disney's That's So Raven, and appeared alongside Hayden in the 2004 Disney Channel movie Tiger Cruise.
His passing came as a shock to his family and close friends. It was later confirmed Jansen died from cardiomegaly, or an enlarged heart, along with aortic valve complications.
Hayden's tribute to her brother
Hayden shared an emotional message following the loss of her little brother. Writing on Instagram two years after his death, the actress said: "2 years ago today, I lost my little brother.
"This amazing human being touched the lives of so many. Especially mine. The pain isn’t quantifiable. I pray you’re in a beautiful place J. That you’re at peace and that when all is said and done…I’ll see you again."
She added: "Rest easy brother. You are so missed and beyond loved."
Parents lose both children
Two years on, Hayden's parents have now lost both of their children. The actress' death was announced on Monday (August 17) by a representative.
A statement from Hayden's dad Skip said: "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her – and to the millions who watched her onscreen."
A statement from Greenville police department shared more information on her death. It said: "On August 16, 2026, at approximately 1.51pm, officers from the Greenville police department, accompanied by EMS personnel, responded to a report of an unresponsive female at Judson Mill Lofts, located at 701 Easley Bridge Road.
"Upon arrival, medical assistance was administered; however, the individual, later identified as Hayden Panettiere, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
"The case is under investigation by the Greenville police department in conjunction with the Greenville county coroner’s office. The preliminary investigation has not indicated any signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances. An acquaintance of Ms Panettiere placed the 911 call."
Career highlights
The 36-year-old began acting as a child, appearing in soap operas before gaining wider recognition for her role in the 2000 sports drama Remember The Titans alongside Denzel Washington, and as the voice of Dot in Pixar’s 1998 film A Bug’s Life.
Hayden found fame playing cheerleader Claire Bennet in the superhero drama Heroes before going on to star as up-and-coming country singer Juliette Barnes for six seasons on the hit TV series Nashville.
Her film credits include 2006’s Bring It On: All Or Nothing, comedy-drama film Raising Helen, and appearances in Scream 4 and Scream VI as Kirby Reed.
