Hayden Panettiere tributes include Viola Davis, Emma Roberts, Brittany Snow and Melissa Barrera
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Actress Hayden Panettiere, known for her roles in "Heroes" and "Nashville," died at age 36.
- Panettiere had spoken openly about her struggles with alcohol and postpartum depression.
- Celebrities including Viola Davis, Melissa Barrera, and Emma Roberts paid tribute to the late actress.
Stars are mourning the loss of actress Hayden Panettiere, who died on Monday at the age of 36. Panettiere was a celebrated actress, gaining fame for her role as Claire Bennet in NBC's "Heroes" and later starring in the musical drama "Nashville."
What an amazing talent you were....so gifted. Julius and I loved working with you....an old, wise soul with such a deep heart. 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, Hayden. Sending healing prayers to your family, your daughter, and all who loved you. May they always speak your name...
She was candid about her personal battles, including struggles with alcohol and postpartum depression, which led her to step away from acting for several years. Panettiere made a return to the screen in 2023 with a role in "Scream VI."
I don't understand how this is real. Everything seemed to be turning around. She was coming back to life, wasnโt she? Itโs too young and thereโs still so much more life. And her daughterโฆ. Hayden, you are surrounded by love. Iโm sorry for every moment I didnโt reach out or check in. This canโt be real.
Fellow celebrities and public figures shared their grief and paid tribute to Panettiere. Viola Davis remembered her as a "gifted" talent with an "old, wise soul" and a "deep heart," noting her inspiring comeback. Bethany Joy Lenz expressed disbelief, stating, "Everything seemed to be turning around. She was coming back to life, wasnโt she?" Jay Shetty shared his sadness, reflecting on a recent conversation and offering condolences to her family and fans. Melissa Barrera and Emma Roberts also posted messages of peace and remembrance. Brittany Snow highlighted Panettiere's "remarkable talent" and "determination to be a bold, bright shining light," remembering her as supportive, curious, funny, and brave. Sendhil Ramamurthy recalled Panettiere's professionalism and generosity on set, noting her advocacy for background actors.
I canโt believe it. Our friendship had just begun and I was so moved by the conversation we shared earlier this year. My love and condolences to her family and fans.
Originally published by CNA. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.