Actor Hayden Panettiere Dies Age 36

American film and TV star Hayden Panettiere has died at the age of 36.

Panettiere began as a child star, her first major film role being the voice of Dot in the animated film A Bug’s Life at age 9. She was propelled to further fame at 17 thanks to her role as Claire Bennet in the popular series Heroes, and later went on to receive two Golden Globe nominations for her portrayal of Juliette Barnes in the series Nashville. She also had roles in films such as the Scream franchise, playing Kirby Reed in the 4th and 6th installments

Her cause of death has not been shared publically, but in a statement released today, her father 

Skip Panettiere said: “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”.

Written by Jorja Flitcroft