'Heroes' star actor Hayden Panettiere dies aged 36

American actress Hayden Panettiere, known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, has died at the age of 36.

Her death was confirmed by her representative to ABC News on Sunday, August 16, 2026.

Her father, Skip Panettiere, also issued a statement describing his daughter as “an incredible light and a force of nature.” The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Panettiere rose to international fame as Claire Bennet in the television series Heroes, which aired on KTN in Kenya in the mid-to-late 2000s alongside other popular shows such as 24, Prison Break and Lost.

In Heroes, she played a young cheerleader with the ability to heal from serious injuries. The role made her a household name among television audiences and established her as a major young star.

Hayden Panettiere has sadly passed away at the age of 36. pic.twitter.com/3lYcabYtiK

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) August 17, 2026

She later starred as Juliette Barnes in the musical drama Nashville, playing a talented country singer navigating personal and professional challenges. Her performance earned her two Golden Globe nominations, while she also performed songs featured in the series.

Panettiere's film credits included Remember the Titans, Scream 4 and Scream VI. She also began acting as a child and voiced Dot in Pixar's animated film A Bug's Life.

Away from acting, Panettiere was open about her struggles with postpartum depression and alcohol addiction. She later discussed her recovery and personal challenges publicly, helping raise awareness around mental health and addiction.

She was the mother of a daughter, Kaya, whom she shared with former professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko. Kaya was 11 years old at the time of her mother's death.

Panettiere's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues across the entertainment industry, many of whom have remembered her for her performances and her impact on audiences.

Her work in television and film will continue to introduce new generations to the actress who rose to fame as a child and became one of the recognisable stars of her generation.