Hayden Panettiere, ‘Heroes’ and ‘Nashville’ Star, Dies at 36

LCCN Staff Report

Actress Hayden Panettiere, known for starring in the television series “Heroes” and “Nashville” and appearing in the “Scream” film franchise, has died at the age of 36, according to reports.

ABC News reported Panettiere’s death, citing a statement from her representative. Details surrounding her death were not immediately available.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” her representative said in the statement. “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.”

Panettiere began acting as a child and became widely known for portraying cheerleader Claire Bennet on NBC’s “Heroes,” which premiered in 2006. Her character’s ability to rapidly heal from injuries became central to the supernatural drama, and the role helped make Panettiere one of the most recognizable young television stars of the era.

She later starred as country singer Juliette Barnes opposite Connie Britton in the musical drama “Nashville.” Panettiere received two Golden Globe nominations for her performance on the series.

Her film credits included “Remember the Titans,” “Racing Stripes,” “I Love You, Beth Cooper” and the horror franchise “Scream.” She portrayed Kirby Reed in 2011’s “Scream 4” and returned to the role more than a decade later in “Scream VI.”

Panettiere also provided the voices of characters in several animated films and video games during a career that began when she was a young child.

News of Panettiere’s death was reported Sunday evening. Additional details were expected to be released as they became available.