Tributes have poured in for actress Hayden Panettiere, who passed away at the age of 36 following her death in Greenville, South Carolina. The actress, known for her roles in US TV shows ‘Heroes’ and ‘Nashville,’ was found in cardiac arrest, with emergency services administering advanced cardiac life support measures, according to the coroner’s office.

Actress’s Death Announced by Father

Panettiere’s death was announced by her father, Skip, who expressed profound sadness at the tragic passing of their beloved Hayden. He described her as an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to those around her and to the millions who watched her onscreen.

He requested privacy for the family as they process this unimaginable loss. The coroner’s office stated that the cause of death had not been confirmed, but the preliminary investigation showed no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances.

Colleagues and Friends Share Tributes

Many in the entertainment industry shared their grief and memories of Panettiere. Oscar winner Viola Davis described Panettiere as an ‘amazing talent,’ while One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy-Lenz noted how as a young star she had acted ‘like no child I’d ever seen on camera.’

Bryan Fuller, who wrote her character’s storyline in the first season of ‘Heroes,’ remembered her as ‘more than an actress, she was a muse.’ Viola Davis also shared a tribute on Instagram, expressing that she wished the world had more time with Panettiere because of her curiosity about who she was becoming.

Long-time friend and One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy-Lenz shared photos of them together online, describing the actress as a wild little blonde who was wise beyond her years and understood scenes and human struggle like no child she had seen on camera. She also expressed sorrow for not checking in more often and noted the impact of her death on Panettiere’s daughter.

Other tributes included from Cruel Intentions actress Selma Blair, who said, ‘I love you. Don’t be gone. Please,’ and singer Jojo, who described the news as ‘devastating.’ Actors’ union Sag-Aftra expressed their hearts with her daughter, family, friends, and fans.

Career and Personal Life

Panettiere’s career began as a child when she was just four years old, cast on the popular US soap opera ‘One Life to Live.’ She later gained wider recognition for her role as a cheerleader in the cult sci-fi series ‘Heroes,’ which ran from 2006 to 2010. Her role as Juliette Barnes in TV series ‘Nashville’ earned her two Golden Globe nominations for best supporting actress.

She also appeared in films such as the Scream horror franchise and the romantic comedy ‘I Love You, Beth Cooper.’ Her Scream co-star Melissa Barrera paid tribute to the actress in an Instagram story, writing ‘rest in peace sweet Hayden,’ alongside a broken heart emoji. Fellow Scream films co-star David Arquette wrote: ‘I love you Hayden.’

Panettiere also released a memoir titled ‘This Is Me: A Reckoning,’ recounting the struggles of growing up as a child actor and her experiences with addiction, abuse, and later recovery. She is survived by her daughter, Kaya, with her ex-partner, Ukrainian former world heavyweight champion boxer, Wladimir Klitschko.