Hayden Panettiere

Hayden Panettiere, an actor who began her career as a child performer, became widely known for roles in the television series Heroes and Nashville. She died at age 36, with her death occurring while her boyfriend was present at her apartment. A medical examiner found no signs of trauma, and a bag of medication was discovered at the scene. The DEA joined the investigation into her death.

Panettiere's death prompted tributes from numerous colleagues, including cast members from Scream, Heroes, and Nashville, who recalled her talent, work ethic, and generosity on set. Her death has been discussed alongside broader questions about the pressures faced by child actors in the entertainment industry, and has coincided with public discussion of other recent deaths among former child performers.