American actress Hayden Panettiere has died at the age of 36, her representative confirmed to ABC News. The news of her passing was reported by multiple news outlets on Sunday, August 16, 2026.
Panettiere was widely known for her roles as Claire Bennet in the NBC superhero series “Heroes” (2006-2010) and Juliette Barnes in the ABC musical drama “Nashville” (2012-2018). Her portrayal of Juliette Barnes earned her two nominations for the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress – Series, Miniseries or Television Film.
Born on August 21, 1989, in Palisades, New York, Panettiere began her acting career at a very young age, appearing in commercials and later in soap operas such as “One Life to Live” and “Guiding Light.” She also lent her voice to characters in video games and appeared in films like “Remember the Titans,” “Ice Princess,” and the “Scream” franchise.
In addition to her acting career, Panettiere was also recognized for her advocacy work. She was a prominent voice for animal welfare and conservation, actively participating in campaigns against whaling and for the protection of marine life.
Her passing comes two years after the death of her younger brother, actor Jansen Panettiere, who died in February 2023 at the age of 28. The family had shared that Jansen’s death was due to cardiomegaly and aortic valve complications.
The representative’s statement to ABC News described Panettiere 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.”
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