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Hayden Panettiere, the actress best known for her roles in “Heroes” and “Nashville,” has died at age 36 after being found in cardiac arrest at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina. Her official cause and manner of death remain under investigation, according to the Greenville County Coroner’s Office.
First responders and emergency medical services were called to the residence on Sunday after a 911 emergency call. Officials said Panettiere was found unresponsive and in cardiac arrest. Responders began advanced cardiac life support measures, but resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful. She was pronounced deceased at 2:32 p.m.
Hayden Panettiere’s Cause of Death Remains Pending
The coroner’s office said an autopsy was completed on Monday. No signs of trauma were discovered that would have contributed to her death, officials said. However, the final cause and manner of death are still pending while investigators complete additional studies.
Panettiere had been temporarily staying at the residence where she was found. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office and Greenville City Police Department have initiated parallel investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Her representative previously confirmed the actress’s death, saying the investigation was ongoing. Authorities have not announced any additional findings or identified a cause of death.
A Family Asks for Privacy
In a statement shared with ABC News, Panettiere’s father, Skip Panettiere, asked the public to respect the family’s privacy as they process the loss.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” he said. “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’s death comes shortly before her 37th birthday. She was also the mother of one daughter, Kaya Klitschko, whom she welcomed in 2014 with her former fiancé, heavyweight boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko.
A Powerful Career in Television and Film
Beginning her career as a child performer, Panettiere became a familiar face on television and in Hollywood films. She gained widespread recognition as cheerleader Claire Bennet on the science-fiction drama “Heroes,” which became one of her most defining roles.
She later starred as Juliette Barnes on the musical drama series “Nashville.” The role showcased her acting and singing talents and helped establish her as a leading television performer.
Her film credits included “Remember the Titans,” “Raising Helen,” “Ice Princess” and “Scream 4.” She also returned to the “Scream” franchise as Kirby Reed in the film released in 2023.
- Claire Bennet in “Heroes”
- Juliette Barnes in “Nashville”
- Kirby Reed in the “Scream” franchise
- Roles in “Remember the Titans,” “Raising Helen” and “Ice Princess”
Panettiere Spoke Openly About Personal Struggles
Throughout her life, Panettiere was candid about the pressures of child stardom, addiction, recovery and postpartum depression. During a 2022 interview with “Good Morning America,” she discussed the difficult years following her time on “Nashville.”
“I didn’t know where the alcoholism was ending and the postpartum was beginning,” Panettiere said at the time. “And I ran myself pretty ragged.”
She said she eventually needed to step away and take a break after years she described as difficult. Her openness helped bring greater public attention to postpartum depression, mental health and addiction recovery.
In May, Panettiere released a memoir titled “This Is Me: A Reckoning.” The book offered a personal account of her experiences, including postpartum depression, addiction, trauma, domestic abuse, recovery and grief.
A Lasting Legacy and Family Loss
Panettiere had also spoken publicly about the death of her younger brother, Jansen Panettiere, who died suddenly in February 2023 at age 28. His family said he died from cardiomegaly, or an enlarged heart, combined with aortic valve complications.
In interviews following his death, Panettiere described the grief as overwhelming and said she would always feel the loss. Her willingness to discuss bereavement became another important part of her public story.
Fans and fellow performers have remembered Panettiere as a talented actress whose career stretched from childhood television appearances to major film and television roles. As officials continue their investigation, the family has asked for privacy and the public is awaiting further information about her death.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Hayden Panettiere die?
Hayden Panettiere was found unresponsive and in cardiac arrest at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina. Resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful, and she was pronounced deceased at 2:32 p.m. Her official cause of death has not been determined.
How old was Hayden Panettiere when she died?
Hayden Panettiere was 36 years old. She would have turned 37 shortly after her death.
What was Hayden Panettiere best known for?
She was best known for playing Claire Bennet on “Heroes” and Juliette Barnes on “Nashville.” She also appeared in “Remember the Titans,” “Ice Princess,” “Scream 4” and the 2023 “Scream” film.
Did officials find signs of trauma?
The Greenville County Coroner’s Office said the autopsy found no signs of trauma that contributed to her death. Additional studies are still pending.
