Hollywood is reeling from the sudden death of actress Hayden Panettiere, who died Sunday at just 36 years old.

The “Heroes” and “Nashville” star’s death sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, prompting an outpouring of grief from former co-stars, friends and fellow celebrities.

Panettiere was found unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, on Aug. 16. Emergency responders attempted to revive her, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have said there were no initial signs of foul play. The official cause and manner of death remain under investigation.

Her representative confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement issued on behalf of Panettiere’s father, Alan Panettiere, who remembered his daughter as a “force of nature” who brought light and love to those around her.

The devastating news quickly spread across Hollywood.

Connie Britton, who starred alongside Panettiere on “Nashville,” shared an emotional tribute to her former co-star.

“Bursting with brilliance, shining so bright,” Britton wrote, expressing that she had “no words” for the heartbreaking loss.

Viola Davis, who worked with Panettiere on the film “The Architect,” also remembered the actress warmly, praising her talent and spirit.

Other stars, including Kim Cattrall, Selma Blair, Bethany Joy Lenz, Melissa Barrera and Jay Shetty, were among those who publicly mourned Panettiere.

Lenz, who worked with Panettiere early in her career on “Guiding Light,” reflected on knowing the actress when she was still a child performer.

Panettiere began acting at a young age and eventually became one of television’s most recognizable young stars.

Her breakthrough came in 2006 when she was cast as Claire Bennet, the seemingly indestructible cheerleader, on NBC’s hit superhero drama “Heroes.”

The role catapulted her to international fame.

She later took on another career-defining role as country singer Juliette Barnes on “Nashville,” earning two Golden Globe nominations for her performance.

Panettiere also appeared in the “Scream” franchise, including “Scream 4” and “Scream VI,” as well as films such as “Remember the Titans” and “Ice Princess.”

Her career was accompanied by deeply personal struggles that she openly discussed in later years.

Panettiere spoke publicly about postpartum depression and alcohol addiction and took several years away from acting before eventually returning to the screen.

Earlier this year, she released her memoir, “This Is Me: A Reckoning,” in which she opened up about her life, career and difficult personal experiences.

Her sudden death comes after years in which Panettiere had worked to rebuild her life and career.

Fans and fellow actors are now remembering not only the characters she portrayed but also the person behind them.

For many of her former colleagues, the loss is especially painful because Panettiere had been a familiar face in Hollywood since childhood.

She leaves behind her 11-year-old daughter, Kaya.

As tributes continue to pour in, one sentiment has become clear: Hayden Panettiere’s impact stretched far beyond the screen.

At only 36, her life and career were tragically cut short — leaving Hollywood mourning a star who, for decades, had been impossible to forget.

Source: people