American actress Hayden Panettiere, widely recognized for her leading roles in television series Heroes and Nashville, has passed away at the age of 36.
Her father, Skip Panettiere, confirmed her passing in a statement issued to news outlets, asking for privacy for the family.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” he stated. “She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her.”
Panettiere began her acting career as a child, featuring in soap operas and animated films before gaining global prominence in 2006 for her role as Claire Bennet in the science-fiction series Heroes. She later starred in the musical drama series Nashville, earning two Golden Globe nominations for her performance.
Earlier this year, Panettiere released her memoir, This Is Me: A Reckoning, in which she documented her career, family life, and her experiences with postpartum depression and addiction.
Further details regarding the cause of death have not yet been disclosed by her family or representatives.
