Hayden Panettiere tributes include Connie Britton, Viola Davis, Selma Blair
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.
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Connie Britton
“Bursting with brilliance, shining so bright. I have no words for this sad song. Just heartbreak. I love you girl. Sleep easy now.”
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Viola Davis
“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…”
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Kim Cattrall
“Rest in peace sweet Hayden. Gone far too soon.”
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Bryan Fuller
“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.”
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Bethany Joy Lenz
“I dont 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.”
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Kelly Osbourne
“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.”
Ashlee Simpson
“I’m deeply saddened by the news of Hayden Panettiere’s passing. Rest in peace, Hayden. You will be deeply missed.”
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Brittany Shaw
“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.”
Jay Shetty
“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.”
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Selma Blair
“I love you. Don’t be gone. Don’t be gone . Please. Please.”
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Melissa Barrera
“Rest in peace sweet Hayden.”
David Arquette
“I love you Hayden”
Rosie O’Donnell
“Oh my god — heartbroken #hayden”
SAG-AFTRA
“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.”
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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. #RIP. 🕊️ #SagAftraMember since 1994 https://t.co/oJSF7ch1hX
— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) August 17, 2026
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