American actress Hayden Panettiere, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, has died at the age of 36.
Her family confirmed her death in a statement released through her publicist, according to ABC News.
Panettiere’s father, Skip Panettiere, described her as “an incredible light and a force of nature” who brought “immeasurable love and joy” to those around her and millions of fans.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” he said.
He asked for privacy as the family comes to terms with what he described as an “unimaginable loss”.
No cause of death has been disclosed. Media reports say an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death is ongoing.
Panettiere began her acting career as a child and went on to become a prominent television and film actress.
She gained international recognition playing Claire Bennet in Heroes and later starred as country music singer Juliette Barnes in Nashville. She also appeared in films including Remember the Titans, Scream 4 and Scream VI.
In her memoir, This Is Me: A Reckoning, Panettiere reflected on her experiences as a child star, as well as addiction and recovery.
Her death comes just days before what would have been her 37th birthday this month.
