'An incredible light': Nashville and Heroes star Hayden Panettiere dead at 36

Nashville and Heroes star Hayden Panettiere has passed away at the age of 36. Her father, Skip Panettiere, shared the heartbreaking news with US network ABC News on Monday. Panettiere, who would have turned 37 this week, was celebrated as an "incredible light" and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to those around her.

The cause of her death has not been announced, and her publicist did not provide immediate comment to the Associated Press. Panettiere rose to fame in 2006 with her role as a superpowered cheerleader in the hit television series Heroes. Her portrayal resonated with audiences across all age groups, earning her three Teen Choice Awards and a Grammy nomination for a spoken word album.

Later, she starred in the country drama Nashville, which ran for four seasons on ABC before being cancelled and later revived on CMT. Panettiere's career included roles in several films, such as Scream, I Love You Beth Cooper, and Remember the Titans, where she played the daughter of a football coach. Throughout her life, Panettiere openly discussed her battles with alcohol addiction and depression. She entered rehab in 2015 and has been candid about her struggles in interviews.