Tributes Pour in for Hayden Panettiere

Hayden Panettiere was remembered by many celebrities following her passing on Sunday at 36 years old. Panettiere was a prolific actress who gained fame as the star of NBC’s “Heroes” and found success in the musical series “Nashville.” She was open about her struggles with alcohol and postpartum depression, taking a hiatus from acting for several years before returning in 2023 for “Scream VI.”

Tributes from Colleagues and Peers

On Monday, fellow actresses Viola Davis, Melissa Barrera, and Bethany Joy Lenz, along with podcaster Jay Shetty, paid tribute to Panettiere.

Viola Davis, Actress
“What incredible talent you had… so gifted. Julius and I loved working with you… an old-soul with such a deep heart. I wish the world had more time with you as I was burning with curiosity to know who you were becoming. I saw this beautiful Phoenix rising from the ashes. Your trials became your testimony, and your testimony became your legacy. You will be remembered. Rest well, Hayden. Sending healing prayers to your family, daughter, and everyone who loved you. May they always speak your name…” via Instagram.

Bethany Joy Lenz expressed disbelief: “I cannot understand how this can be real. Everything seemed to be getting better. She was coming back to life, wasn’t she? She is too young and so much life is left ahead. And her daughter…. Hayden, you are surrounded by love. I’m sorry for every moment I never wrote to you or asked how you were. This cannot be real” via Instagram.

Television host Kelly Osbourne reflected on their shared experiences: “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.

Musician Ashlee Simpson added: “I am deeply saddened by the news of Hayden Panettiere’s passing. Rest in peace, Hayden. We will miss you so much” via Instagram.

Actress Brittany Shaw shared her shock: “This is a shock. Gosh, she was amazing. She had this way of making you feel at home. From the moment I stepped onto the set of Nashville, she made me feel like I belonged there. We had so many good times together, and I will always be grateful for them” via Instagram.

Podcaster Jay Shetty tweeted his disbelief: “I can’t believe it. Our friendship had hardly begun, and I was deeply touched by the conversation we shared earlier this year. Deepest condolences to her family and fans” via Instagram.

Actress Selma Blair posted: “I love you. Don’t go. Don’t go. Please. Please” via Instagram.

Melissa Barrera kept it simple: “Rest in peace, sweet Hayden” via Instagram.

David Arquette voiced his affection: “I love you, Hayden” via Instagram.

Rosie O’Donnell expressed heartbreak: “Oh my God—heartbroken #hayden—” via Instagram.

The SAG-AFTRA union shared their sorrow: “We mourn the sudden passing of Hayden Panettiere. A child actress, Hayden’s long career in television and film included memorable roles in ‘Heroes,’ ‘Nashville,’ and more. Our hearts go out to her daughter, family, friends, and fans” via X.