Hayden Panettiere, best known for her roles in Heroes, Nashville and the Scream franchise, has died aged 36, prompting an outpouring of tributes from former co-stars and friends.
Family confirms tragic loss
A representative for the actress confirmed the death, with a statement from her father Skip reading: “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.”
Co-stars have begun paying tribute, with Selma Blair commenting under Panettiere’s latest social media post: “I love you. Don’t be gone. Don’t be gone. Please. Please.” In a later comment, she added: “I love you whale tail my friend,” followed by: “I’m dying. Please be here.”
Co-stars share memories
Viola Davis, who starred alongside Panettiere in the 2016 courtroom drama Custody, shared a tribute on Instagram. “What an amazing talent you were….so gifted. Julius and I loved working with you….an old, wise soul with such a deep heart,” she wrote. “I wish the world had more time with you because I had a burning curiosity about who you were becoming. I saw this beautiful Phoenix rising from the ashes. Your tests became your testimony, and your testimony became your legacy. You will be remembered. Rest well. Sending healing prayers to your family, your daughter, and all who loved you. May they always speak your name…”
Bethany Joy Lenz, from One Tree Hill, posted a string of photos of their friendship, writing: “There is nothing that posting pictures on the internet can do. I avoid it usually in moments like this. But I’m here with my head in my hands and I don’t know what else to do in aside from praying for her soul, which I have done and will continue. I’m crushed. I knew the wild little blonde. Was she nine? Ten? I was eighteen. She ran through the Screen Gem studio hallways at 222 E44th St. laughing and playing games in between blocking and camera rehearsals.”
She continued: “Long, unruly curls trailing behind her. She knew her lines and everyone else’s. Her intelligence was astonishing. She understood scenes and nuance and human struggle like no child I’d ever seen on camera. And she’d sit with you for a great conversation, then giggle and go play. We’d connect on and off over the years, like the cousin in the family reunion who got famous and life moved her away – but I always felt such joy seeing her when we were lucky enough to cross paths. We’d make a pact to talk soon. Lunch. Dinner. Somewhere we could curl up into a corner – but we never quite made it happen. I mostly stayed up to date through mutual friends.”
Concluding, she added: “These are moments of how I knew you, in glimpses over 27 years. I don’t know how to process this. I am praying for you to know the peace of God now and always.”
Final post and more tributes
In her final Instagram post on 27 July, Panettiere shared a smiling picture with her friend, photographer and director Randall Slavin. Slavin later reposted the black-and-white image to his Instagram Stories, writing: “Peace be with you, H.”
Scream co-star Melissa Barrera paid tribute in an Instagram story, writing, “Rest in peace sweet Hayden,” alongside a broken heart emoji. Singer JoJo wrote on her Instagram Stories: “This is such devastating news. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. Oh My God.” Comedian Rosie O’Donnell shared a picture with the caption: “Oh my god – heartbroken.”
Jay Shetty, who interviewed Panettiere not long before her death, commented on a Variety post: “Truly heartbroken by this news.” Actor Don Benjamin, who worked with her on Heroes, added: “Damn! Worked with her on Heroes. What a kind soul. RIP.” Singer Lizzy McAlpine commented “Omfg,” and actress Greer Grammer said: “oh my god this is just absolutely devastating. I can’t believe it.”
SAG-AFTRA shared on X: “We mourn the sudden passing of Hayden Panettiere. A child actor, Hayden's long career in TV & film included memorable roles in 'Heroes,' 'Nashville' & more. Our hearts are with her daughter, family, friends & fans. #RIP. #SagAftraMember since 1994.”
