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Bryan Cranston Gave Panettiere 'Malcolm' Role
18 Aug
Summary
- Muniz shared a touching Instagram tribute to Panettiere.
- Panettiere recalled Cranston giving her a 'Malcolm' role.
- Panettiere's death was confirmed by her family last week.
Frankie Muniz has shared a heartfelt tribute to his late Malcolm in the Middle co-star, Hayden Panettiere. Panettiere passed away last week at the age of 36, prompting Muniz to post a touching message on Instagram on August 17, 2026. He fondly recalled their shared experiences on set, stating he had many amazing stories and memories with her.
Panettiere portrayed Jessica in the Fox sitcom, appearing in four episodes between 2003 and 2005 as Malcolm's love interest. She once shared that Bryan Cranston, who also had a prior connection with her mother, was instrumental in her getting the role. Cranston directed her episodes and gave her the part despite initial reservations, a moment she described as someone taking a chance on her.
Panettiere's family confirmed her death on August 16, 2026, just days before her 37th birthday. They issued a statement remembering her as an "incredible light and a force of nature." Earlier reports from local authorities in Greenville, South Carolina, indicated that officers responded to a report of an unresponsive female. Preliminary investigations at the time did not suggest foul play.
