Actress Hayden Panettiere Dies at 36

Rockland County-born actress Hayden Panettiere, widely recognized for her roles in "Heroes," "Nashville," and the "Scream" film series, died on August 16 in Greenville, South Carolina. She was 36 years old.

Authorities reported that officers and EMS responded to a call of an unresponsive woman at an apartment complex, where Panettiere was pronounced deceased at the scene. The initial investigation indicated no foul play or suspicious circumstances, with the cause of death pending.

Her father, Skip Panettiere, shared a statement expressing profound sorrow, describing her as an "incredible light" who brought joy to many. Panettiere's early career began with commercials and soap operas before she gained wider recognition as Claire Bennet on "Heroes."

Her notable film credits include "Remember the Titans," "Ice Princess," and "Scream 4" and "Scream VI." She also voiced Princess Dot in Disney-Pixar's "A Bug's Life" and had roles in the "Kingdom Hearts" video game series.

From 2012 to 2018, Panettiere starred as Juliette Barnes in the ABC drama "Nashville," earning two Golden Globe nominations for her performance.

In May 2026, she released her memoir, "This Is Me: A Reckoning," detailing her experiences with postpartum depression, addiction, trauma, and domestic abuse.

Panettiere's younger brother, actor Jansen Panettiere, died in February 2023 at age 28. She also had a daughter, Kaya, born in 2014, with ex-partner Wladimir Klitschko, with whom she shared custody.

Hayden Panettiere's passing occurred nearly two years after her brother's death and following the release of her candid memoir.