Stars are paying tribute to Hayden Panettiere after the actor’s death at 36. Panettiere was a prolific actor who rose to fame as a star on NBC’s “Heroes” and scored a crossover TV-music hit with the series “Nashville.” She was open about her struggles with alcohol and postpartum depression and stopped acting for several years, returning for “Scream VI” in 2023. 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, as well as her former partner, Wladimir Klitschko. Connie Britton, actor “Bursting with brilliance, shining so bright. I have no words for this sad song. Just heartbreak. I love you girl. Sleep easy now.” — via Instagram. Wladimir Klitschko, boxer and former partner “She built an incredible career through immense talent, while also facing the darker sides of a very demanding industry. Nothing will erase the times we shared or the place she had in our lives. To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and make sure she remembers the person she was.” — via Instagram. Viola Davis, actor “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...” via Instagram. Alyssa Milano, actor “She spoke openly about what so many are taught to hide: domestic violence, postpartum depression, addiction, recovery, and abuse. She did not share these things for ease or attention, but because she understood what her silence could cost others. Her activism was not polished or performative. It was instinctive, human, sometimes messy, often vulnerable, and always sincere.” -- via Instagram. Christian Siriano, designer “Rest well beauty. Everyone send love to her family and friends. Only 36 years old a reminder we never know what anyone is going through, check on your friends and the people you love as much as you can.” -- via Instagram. Kim Cattrall, actor “Rest in peace sweet Hayden. Gone far too soon.” -- via Instagram. Bryan Fuller, writer and producer “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.” -- via Instagram. Bethany Joy Lenz, actor “I don’t 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.” — via Instagram. Kelly Osbourne, TV host “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.” — via Instagram Sendhil Ramamurthy, “Heroes” actor “Hayden was already a pro. I was nearly twice her age and she had 3x as much experience. I learned a lot from her. She stuck up for background actors when they were mistreated, knew every crew members name, and was so generous with her time.” -- via Instagram. Ashlee Simpson, musician “I’m deeply saddened by the news of Hayden Panettiere’s passing. Rest in peace, Hayden. You will be deeply missed.” — via Instagram. Brittany Shaw, actor “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.” — via Instagram. Jay Shetty, podcaster “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.” — via Instagram. Selma Blair, actor “I love you. Don’t be gone. Don’t be gone . Please. Please.” — via Instagram. Melissa Barrera, actor “Rest in peace sweet Hayden.” — via Instagram. David Arquette, actor “I love you Hayden” — via Instagram. Rosie O’Donnell, actor “Oh my god — heartbroken #hayden — ” via Instagram. SAG-AFTRA, union “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.” — via X.
