**Hayden Panettiere, ‘Heroes’ and ‘Nashville’ US Actress, Dies at 36**
American actress Hayden Panettiere has passed away at the age of 36, as reported by various U.S. media outlets including ABC News. The news was confirmed through a statement issued by her father, Alan “Skip” Panettiere, who expressed profound sadness over her tragic passing. He described Hayden as "an incredible light and a force of nature," noting the immeasurable love and joy she brought to those who knew her and to the millions who admired her work onscreen.
The details surrounding the cause of her death have not been disclosed, and her agency has not yet provided further comments regarding the situation.
Panettiere was well-known for her significant contributions to television and film. She began her career as a child actor, gaining early recognition for her role as the voice of Dot, the young princess ant, in Pixar’s acclaimed animated film “A Bug’s Life,” released in 1998. Her performance on the film's read-along album even earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Spoken Word Album for Children.
Her breakthrough role came in 2006 when she starred as Claire Bennet, a high school cheerleader with superpowers, in NBC's hit series “Heroes.” The show garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, solidifying Panettiere's status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
In addition to her work on “Heroes,” Panettiere appeared in the 2000 football drama “Remember the Titans,” which starred Denzel Washington. Her performance in the series “Nashville” earned her two Golden Globe nominations in 2013 and 2014 for Best Supporting Actress in a Television Series, Limited Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television. In “Nashville,” she played the role of Juliette Barnes, a character that resonated with audiences and showcased her musical talents.
Panettiere also had a role in the satirical horror “Scream” franchise, further demonstrating her versatility as an actress. Her most recent work was in the psychological thriller “Sleepwalker,” which was released in the U.S. in January 2026. In this film, she portrayed a grieving mother dealing with sleepwalking episodes, highlighting her ability to tackle complex emotional roles.
The actress's passing comes shortly after the loss of her brother, actor Jansen Panettiere, who died in 2023 at the age of 28 due to complications related to an enlarged heart and an aortic-valve condition. This family tragedy adds to the sorrow surrounding Hayden's death.
As fans and colleagues mourn her loss, Hayden Panettiere's legacy as a talented actress and beloved figure in the entertainment industry will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.