Hayden Panettiere dies at 36

Her representative confirmed her death to ABC News.August 16, 2026, 11:05 PMActress Hayden Panettiere has died, her representative confirmed to ABC News. She was 36 years old."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 onscreen," her rep said in a statement.Further details surrounding Panettiere's death were not immediately available.TODAY -- Pictured: Hayden Panettiere on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 -- (Photo by: Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)Nbc/Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty IBeginning as a child star, with a long career in both TV and film, Panettiere is remembered for her roles as Claire Bennet on the hit series "Heroes" and as Juliette Barnes on the musical drama "Nashville."Popular ReadsShe also starred in "Remember the Titans," "Raising Helen," "Ice Princess" and "Scream 4."Panettiere has been candid about her struggles from child stardom through adulthood. She released a memoir this May titled "This Is Me: A Reckoning."This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.Sponsored Content by TaboolaPopular Reads