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Hayden Panettiere died Sunday, Aug. 16, at age 36, authorities and her family confirmed. The Hayden Panettiere death remains under investigation in Greenville, South Carolina.
Hayden Panettiere death investigation continues
Greenville police and emergency personnel responded to an apartment shortly before 2 p.m. Sunday. An acquaintance had reported finding Panettiere unresponsive.
First responders attempted lifesaving measures. However, officials pronounced the actress dead at the scene, according to sources.
Authorities have not announced a cause of death. Police said their preliminary investigation found no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances.
The Greenville County Coroner’s Office planned to conduct an autopsy. Its findings could provide more information about the cause and manner of death.
Reports describing Panettiere as suffering cardiac arrest reflect her condition when emergency workers responded. Cardiac arrest does not establish the underlying cause of death.
Social media posts have offered additional theories. However, authorities have not confirmed claims involving an overdose, suicide or a specific medical condition.
Panettiere would have turned 37 on Aug. 21.
Family confirms the actress’ passing
Panettiere’s father, Skip Panettiere, confirmed her death in a statement provided to ABC News.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” he said.
The family described her as a powerful presence who brought joy to those who knew her. Her relatives also requested privacy while processing the loss.
Panettiere is survived by her daughter, Kaya, whom she shared with former professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko. Her younger brother, actor Jansen Panettiere, died from heart complications in 2023 at age 28.
There is currently no confirmed connection between the siblings’ deaths.
A career spanning television, film and music
Panettiere began working as a child in commercials and television. Early credits included the soap operas “One Life to Live” and “Guiding Light.”
She also appeared in “Remember the Titans,” “Raising Helen,” “Ice Princess” and “Bring It On: All or Nothing.” She voiced Dot in Pixar’s “A Bug’s Life.”
Her breakthrough came in 2006 as Claire Bennet on NBC’s “Heroes.” The character, a cheerleader with regenerative powers, became central to the show’s story and cultural impact.
Panettiere later portrayed country singer Juliette Barnes on “Nashville.” She performed her own music and earned two Golden Globe nominations. Eleven of her recordings from the series reached Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart.
Her film career also included “Scream 4” and “Scream VI.” The latter marked her return to the franchise as fan-favorite character Kirby Reed.
Tributes honor Hayden Panettiere’s legacy
Actors Viola Davis, Selma Blair, Melissa Barrera and David Arquette were among those sharing tributes Monday. SAG-AFTRA also recognized Panettiere’s long career in film and television.
In recent years, Panettiere had spoken publicly about postpartum depression, anxiety, addiction and recovery. She revisited those experiences in her 2026 memoir, “This Is Me: A Reckoning.”
As authorities continue their investigation, verified updates should take priority over online speculation. Panettiere’s work across television, film and music remains part of her lasting connection with audiences.