Actress Hayden Panettiere Dies at 36 in South Carolina

Actress Hayden Panettiere died at the age of 36 on August 16, 2024, after being found unresponsive at an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina. The "Ice Princess" star's death occurred just five days before her 37th birthday. Her father, Alan Lee "Skip" Panettiere, confirmed the news in a statement to ABC News, describing her as an "incredible light" who brought "immeasurable love and joy" to those around her and to her audience. Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a call reporting an "unresponsive female" in "cardiac arrest" at Judson Mill Lofts in Greenville at 1:51 p.m. on August 16. First responders attempted medical assistance, but Panettiere was pronounced dead at the scene at 2:32 p.m. Law enforcement indicated that an acquaintance of the actress placed the 911 call. The Greenville Police Department, in conjunction with the Greenville County Coroner's Office, is conducting an ongoing investigation into Panettiere's death. Authorities stated that the preliminary investigation has not revealed any signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances, and an official cause of death has not yet been announced. Panettiere had reportedly traveled from Los Angeles to South Carolina with her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, on Saturday, August 15, one day prior to her passing. It remains unclear if Hickerson was the individual who made the 911 call. Hickerson, a real estate agent originally from South Carolina, was first publicly linked romantically to Panettiere in 2018. Their relationship has been characterized by public reports of domestic violence, and in 2021, Hickerson served jail time related to these allegations. Panettiere was widely recognized for her roles in television and film, including her portrayal of Claire Bennet in the NBC superhero drama "Heroes" from 2006 to 2010, and her role as Juliette Barnes in the ABC musical drama "Nashville" from 2012 to 2018. She also gained recognition for her performance in the 2005 film "Ice Princess" and for her advocacy work, particularly concerning animal rights and welfare. Her career began at a young age, with early roles in "The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas" (2000) and "A Bug's Life" (1998). The news of her death has prompted widespread tributes from co-stars, friends, and fans, mourning the loss of a talented performer and a vibrant personality.