American actress Hayden Panettiere, in ‘Heroes’ and ‘Nashville’ shows, dies at 36

American actress Hayden Panettiere, known for her roles in TV shows such as Nashville and Heroes, has died at the age of 36, ABC News reported on Sunday, citing her representative.

"It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her - and to the millions who watched her on screen," her representative told ABC News.

Her publicist, Kasey Kitchen, said an investigation into Panettiere’s death was under way, but it was unclear whether she was referring to a routine death investigation and autopsy.

The cause and manner of death have not been disclosed.

Career and legacy

Panettiere, who began her career as a child actor, became widely known for playing Claire Bennet in the science-fiction series Heroes and Juliette Barnes in the musical drama Nashville.

Her film credits include Remember the Titans, Raising Helen, Ice Princess, and Scream 4.

Personal struggles

The actress was also open about her struggles with postpartum depression and addiction. She said those difficulties contributed to her decision to give up custody of her daughter, Kaya Evdokia Klitschko, in 2018.

Panettiere had Kaya in 2014 with her former fiancé, Ukrainian former heavyweight boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko.

Earlier this year, Panettiere published her memoir, This Is Me: A Reckoning, which included revelations about her career, personal struggles, and past relationships.

Family tragedy

Her younger brother, actor Jansen Panettiere, died suddenly in February 2023 at the age of 28. His family said he died from an enlarged heart and complications involving the aortic valve.

Hayden Panettiere later spoke publicly about her grief over his death, telling People magazine that she would “always be heartbroken” over his loss.

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Hayden Panettiere Heroes Hollywood Nashville United States