GREENVILLE, S.C. — Actress Hayden Panettiere, known for her roles in “Heroes” and “Nashville,” has died at the age of 36, according to a representative for the actress.
The representative said Panettiere’s death appears to have been the result of a possible drug overdose. An official cause of death, however, has not been announced.
Dispatch audio shared by TMZ with Local 10 referenced a “cardiac arrest” and an “overdose” as South Carolina first responders rushed to an apartment complex in Greenville, where Panettiere was found unresponsive Sunday afternoon.
Despite lifesaving efforts, Panettiere was pronounced dead at the scene.
Greenville investigators said their preliminary investigation found no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances.
Panettiere’s father remembered his daughter as an “incredible light” in a statement following her death.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” the statement read. “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.”
From child actor to television star
Panettiere began her television career in the 1990s, appearing in commercials and soap operas before landing one of the roles that would make her a household name.
In 2006, she began portraying Claire Bennet, a cheerleader with superpowers, on the television series “Heroes.”
Six years later, Panettiere took on the role of country singer Juliette Barnes in “Nashville.”
Her career also included roles on the big screen, including “Remember the Titans,” “Raising Helen” and “Bring It On: All or Nothing.”
Panettiere gave birth to her only child in 2014. A year later, she entered rehab.
In recent years, the actress had spoken openly about her struggles with opioid and alcohol addiction, as well as her attempts at recovery.
Panettiere returned to the screen in 2023 as fan-favorite Kirby Reed in the sixth installment of the “Scream” franchise.
That same year, she experienced a personal tragedy when her younger brother died from a heart condition.
Earlier this year, Panettiere released her memoir, “This Is Me: A Reckoning,” in which she opened up about postpartum depression, addiction and recovery.
Panettiere would have turned 37 on Friday.
Her official cause of death remains pending.
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