New details have emerged after the death of Heroes actor Hayden Panettiere who died aged 36.
Panettiere was found unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, on Sunday local time. Emergency responders were called by “an acquaintance to the scene”.
“Upon arrival, medical assistance was administered; however, the individual, later identified as Hayden Panettiere, was pronounced deceased at the scene,” Greenville Police Department said in a statement.
“The preliminary investigation has not indicated any signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances.”
In a different statement, the coroner said “advanced cardiac life support measures” were initiated.
Her father, Alan “Skip” Panettiere, confirmed her death in a statement, describing his daughter as “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 onscreen”.
As the news spread, people who had worked with Panettiere across her decades-long career shared memories of an actor they knew as exceptionally talented, warm and deeply loved.
Viola Davis
Viola Davis, who worked with Panettiere on the 2016 film Custody, posted a lengthy tribute alongside a photograph of the pair.
“What an amazing talent you were…. so gifted,” Davis wrote.
“Julius [Tennon] 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,” she continued.
“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…”
Connie Britton
Connie Britton, who starred alongside Panettiere throughout the show Nashville, shared a carousel of images and a short, devastating message.
“This was Hayden. Bursting with brilliance, shining so bright,” Britton wrote.
“I have no words for this sad song. Just heartbreak. I love you girl. Sleep easy now.”
Bethany Joy Lenz
Bethany Joy Lenz’s tribute reached back to the years when she and Panettiere were both young actors working in the industry. She recalled meeting Panettiere when she was around nine or 10 years old.
“I’m crushed. I knew the wild little blonde. Was she nine? Ten? I was eighteen,” Lenz wrote.
“She ran through the Screen Gem studio hallways at 222 E44th St. laughing and playing games in between blocking and camera rehearsals. Long, unruly curls trailing behind her. She knew her lines and everyone else’s. Her intelligence was astonishing.
“She understood scenes and nuance and human struggle like no child I’d ever seen on camera. And she’d sit with you for a great conversation, then giggle and go play,” the One Tree Hill actress continued.
“I dont understand how this is real. Everything seemed to be turning around. She was coming BACK to life, wasn’t she? It’s too young and there’s still so much more life. And her daughter…. Hayden, you are surround by love. I’m sorry for every moment I didn’t reach out or check in. This can’t be real.”
Bryan Fuller
Heroes writer and producer Bryan Fuller, who helped shape Panettiere’s iconic storyline as Claire Bennet in the show’s first season, wrote that she had left a lasting mark on him.
“Hayden was more than an actress she was a muse,” Fuller wrote.
“Wise beyond her years and already saddled with so much of a life, she left an indelible mark on me as a writer and a storyteller. Incredibly sad news.”
Melissa Barrera and David Arquette
Panettiere’s Scream co-stars also remembered her in brief, heartfelt posts.
Melissa Barrera, who appeared with Panettiere in Scream VI, wrote: “Rest in peace sweet Hayden.”
David Arquette, who worked with her on Scream 4 said she was a “brave and brilliant soul”.
Selma Blair
Selma Blair commented beneath Panettiere’s final Instagram post with a message that captured the shock felt by many of her peers.
“I love you. Don’t be gone. Don’t be gone. Please. Please.”
Panettiere’s career began when she was a child and spanned more than three decades, playing iconic roles in projects like One Life to Live and Remember the Titans to Claire Bennet in Heroes and Juliette Barnes in Nashville. It is clear she will be missed.
Panettiere is survived by her daughter, Kaya.
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Lead image: Getty / Instagram
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