Hollywood stars are mourning the death of Hayden Panettiere, who died Sunday at 36. Panettiere was known for her roles in the television series "Heroes" and "Nashville," as well as the "Scream" film franchise. Her representative confirmed the news to Fox News Digital.
"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 provided to ABC News.
Following the announcement of her death, friends, former co-stars, and fellow celebrities took to social media to share tributes.
Viola Davis, who starred alongside Panettiere in the 2016 film "Custody," remembered the actress as an "amazing talent." Davis wrote on Instagram that she and her husband, Julius Tennon, "loved working" with Panettiere, describing her as an "old, wise soul" with a deep heart. Davis expressed a wish that the world had more time with Panettiere and reflected on watching the actress navigate difficult periods, offering prayers for Panettiere's family and daughter.
Bethany Joy Lenz, who starred with Panettiere in "One Tree Hill," shared an emotional tribute. Lenz stated she had known Panettiere since childhood and expressed disbelief. "I’m crushed," Lenz wrote on Instagram. "I knew the wild little blonde. Was she nine? Ten? I was eighteen." Lenz recalled Panettiere's perceptiveness and talent even at a young age, noting her "astonishing" intelligence. Lenz described their connection as similar to cousins who would reconnect periodically, though they often missed opportunities to meet. "I dont understand how this is real," Lenz wrote. "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." Lenz also expressed regret for times she did not reach out and shared her heartbreak for Panettiere’s daughter.
Other notable tributes included "Scream VI" co-star Melissa Barrera, who wrote on Instagram Stories, "Rest in peace sweet Hayden." David Arquette, who appeared with Panettiere in "Scream 4," shared his heartbreak, writing, "Sending my love to Hayden and her family. She was such a brave and brilliant soul." Selma Blair left emotional comments on Panettiere's final Instagram post, and Rosie O’Donnell shared her shock, writing, "Oh my god — heartbroken." Podcaster Jay Shetty reflected on a recently begun friendship, stating he was moved by a conversation they shared earlier in the year.
Panettiere's cause of death has not been publicly announced.