Actress Hayden Panettiere Reportedly Dies at 36
Actress Hayden Panettiere, known for her roles in ‘Nashville’ and ‘Heroes,’ has reportedly died at the age of 36, according to a representative who confirmed the news to ABC News.
Cleveland Akron, OH, August 17, 2026 —
Actress Hayden Panettiere, widely recognized for her television roles, has reportedly passed away at the age of 36. A representative confirmed the news to ABC News.
Panettiere gained significant recognition for her portrayal of cheerleader Claire Bennet in the NBC superhero drama Heroes, which aired from 2006 to 2010. She also starred as country singer Juliette Barnes in the ABC musical drama Nashville, a role for which she received a Golden Globe nomination.
Her career began at a young age, with early roles including a role in the soap opera One Life to Live and a recurring part in the sitcom Ally McBeal. Panettiere also appeared in films such as Remember the Titans and Bring It On: All or Nothing. She was also known for her role as the voice of Kairi in the video game series Kingdom Hearts.
The cause of death and further details surrounding her passing were not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by Sara Donnellan on www.cleveland.com, see more information here.
