Hayden Panettiere passes away: Connie Britton, Viola Davis, Selma Blair and other Hollywood stars pay tribute

Hayden Panettiere, who shot to fame in the TV shows ‘Heroes’ and ‘Nashville’ while enduring struggles with alcohol addiction and postpartum depression, tragically passed away on Sunday. She was 36.

Hayden Panettiere pronounced deceased at the scene

Police said Panettiere was found unresponsive in an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina, shortly before 2 p.m. Sunday. A spokesperson for Greenville PD told Variety, “Upon arrival, medical assistance was administered; however, the individual, later identified as Hayden Panettiere, was pronounced deceased at the scene”.“The case is under investigation by the Greenville Police Department in conjunction with the Greenville County Coroner’s Office”, they added.

Police find no signs of foul play in Hayden Panettiere case

As per the report, the spokesperson added that “the preliminary investigation has not indicated any signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances” and “an acquaintance of Ms. Panettiere placed the 911 call”.The cause of Panettiere’s death has not yet been confirmed, but People reported that on the dispatch audio, which the outlet obtained, officials could be heard discussing an “overdose” and “cardiac arrest”.

Hayden Panettiere’s death remains under investigation

No cause of death has been determined and Panettiere’s death remains under investigation. An autopsy found no signs of trauma and police said officers saw no signs of foul play.

Hayden Panettiere’s father confirms actress’ death

“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” her father, Skip Panettiere, said in a statement provided to ABC. “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 had been open about her struggles with alcohol and drugs over the years, and stepped away from the industry in 2016 before returning in 2023 with ‘Scream VI’. In May of this year, she published a memoir titled ‘This Is Me: A Reckoning’, in which she wrote candidly about these struggles and the impact of growing up in Hollywood.

Hollywood pays tribute

Stars are paying tribute to Hayden Panettiere after the news about her death broke online. Among those paying tribute to Panettiere on Monday were fellow actors Connie Britton, Viola Davis, Melissa Barrera and Bethany Joy Lenz, and podcaster Jay Shetty.Actress Connie Britton, wrote via Instagram, “Bursting with brilliance, shining so bright. I have no words for this sad song. Just heartbreak. I love you girl. Sleep easy now.”Viola Davis penned a post that read, “What an amazing talent you were….so gifted. Julius and I loved working with you….an old, wise soul with such a deep heart. I wish the world had more time with you because I had a burning curiosity about who you were becoming. I saw this beautiful Phoenix rising from the ashes. Your tests became your testimony, and your testimony became your legacy. You will be remembered. Rest well, Hayden. Sending healing prayers to your family, your daughter, and all who loved you. May they always speak your name…”Actress Kim Cattrall wrote, “Rest in peace sweet Hayden. Gone far too soon.”Bryan Fuller, write and producer shared in an Instagram post, “Hayden was more than an actress she was a muse. Wise beyond her years and already saddled with so much of a life, she left an indelible mark on me as a writer and a storyteller. Incredibly sad news.”Bethany Joy Lenz, also joined in and penned a note that read, “I dont understand how this is real. Everything seemed to be turning around. She was coming BACK to life, wasn’t she? It’s too young and there’s still so much more life. And her daughter…. Hayden, you are surround by love. I’m sorry for every moment I didn’t reach out or check in. This can’t be real.”Kelly Osbourne, TV host added, “I am deeply saddened by the loss of someone who meant so much to me. We understood each other in a way few truly can – recognizing how difficult it is to grow up in the spotlight, and how isolating it can feel even when surrounded by so many people.”Singer Ashlee Simpson, shared her shock, “I’m deeply saddened by the news of Hayden Panettiere’s passing. Rest in peace, Hayden. You will be deeply missed.”Actress Brittany Shaw, also paid tribute in a post that read, “This is a shock. Man, she was great. She had this way of making you feel at home. From the moment I walked onto the Nashville set, she made me feel like I belonged. We had so many good times together, and I’ll always be grateful for them.”Podcaster Jay Shetty, who interviewed Hayden just three months ago about her book and more, said, “I can’t believe it. Our friendship had just begun and I was so moved by the conversation we shared earlier this year. My love and condolences to her family and fans.”‘Screem’ star Selma Blair, wrote, “I love you. Don’t be gone. Don’t be gone . Please. Please.”Melissa Barrera, penned a post that read, “Rest in peace sweet Hayden.”Former co-star David Arquette, wrote, “I love you Hayden”Rosie O’Donnell, shared, “Oh my god – heartbroken #hayden – “SAG-AFTRA, union also joined in and released a statement that read, “We mourn the sudden passing of Hayden Panettiere. A child actor, Hayden’s long career in TV & film included memorable roles in ‘Heroes,’ ‘Nashville’ & more. Our hearts are with her daughter, family, friends & fans.”