Rosie O’Donnell, Viola Davis Pay Tribute to Hayden Panettiere: “Heartbroken”

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Following the sudden death of Hayden Panettiere, fellow industry notables are taking to social media to pay tribute to the actress.

Panettiere’s rep told ABC News on Sunday that she died at age 36. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” the rep wrote in a statement. “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 cause of death wasn’t immediately available.

Panettiere, who got candid about her postpartum depression and alcohol and opioid addiction in her memoir This Is Me: A Reckoning earlier this year, was best known for her roles in Heroes, Nashville, the Scream franchise, Bring It on: All or Nothing and dozens of other projects.

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Viola Davis, Melissa Barrera, Rosie O’Donnell and David Arquette are among those sharing heartfelt messages to remember Panettiere.

“Oh my god – heartbroken #hayden,” talk show host and comedian Rosie O’Donnell wrote in an Instagram post. David Arquette, who worked with Panettiere on Scream 4, also kept his reaction brief, writing: “I love you Hayden.”

Melissa Barrera, who starred in Scream VI with Panettiere, said in an Instagram Story with a broken heart emoji: “Rest in peace sweet Hayden.”

Davis called Panettiere “an old wise soul with such a deep heart,” adding: “I wish the world had more time with you because I had a burning curiosity about who you were becoming.”

See more tributes below.

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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• Obituaries

  Hayden Panettiere, Actress on ‘Heroes’ and ‘Nashville,’ Dies at 36