Hayden Panettiere, the actress who rose to fame playing a superpowered cheerleader in Odessa, Texas on television show “Heroes,” has died.
Panettiere was 36. Her representative confirmed her death on Sunday, Aug. 16, according to USA TODAY. A cause of death has not been disclosed.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. 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,” her father, Skip Panettiere, said in a statement. He also asked for privacy as the family processes the loss.
Panettiere became one of the breakout stars of “Heroes” as Claire Bennet, a Texas high school cheerleader who discovers she has the ability to rapidly heal from injuries. The role helped propel Panettiere to wider fame after years of acting as a child.
Panettiere later starred as country singer Juliette Barnes in more than 100 episodes of “Nashville,” a performance that earned her two Golden Globe nominations. She also appeared in the “Scream” franchise.
How did Hayden Panettiere die?
A cause of death has not yet been shared.
USA TODAY contributed to this story.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on X, natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: How did Hayden Panettiere die?
‘Heroes’ actress dead at 36
Reporting by Natassia Paloma, El Paso Times / El Paso Times
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Natassia Paloma, El Paso Times | USA TODAY Network
