Heroes star Hayden Panettiere dies aged 36

American actress Hayden Panettiere, aged 36, has passed away. Tributes pour in for the talented star who brought joy to millions through her on-screen roles. "She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her," said her father Skip Panettiere, who requested privacy as the family grieves this devastating loss.

Born on August 21, 1989, in New York, Panettiere embarked on her acting journey at the tender age of 11 months, appearing in commercials. Her career began in the soap opera One Life to Live, where she played Sarah Roberts from age six. She later starred in Guiding Light from 1996 to 2000 and found her breakout role in the superhero drama Heroes, portraying Claire Bennet, a high-school cheerleader with the ability to regenerate.

Panettiere's versatility shone through various TV shows like Ally McBeal, Malcolm in the Middle, and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. She also made a mark on the big screen, starring in sports drama Remember the Titans alongside Denzel Washington and Disney's Ice Princess as aspiring figure skater Gen Harwood. Her film career included memorable roles in Scream 4, Scream VI, and teen comedy I Love You, Beth Cooper.

Panettiere's impact on the entertainment industry is deeply felt, as she leaves behind a legacy of love and joy for all who were touched by her work.