By Gloria Ogbonna

Hayden Panettiere, the actress best known for her roles in the television series “Heroes” and “Nashville,” has died at the age of 36, her representative confirmed to ABC News.

The news of Panettiere’s death has prompted an outpouring of sadness from fans who followed her career from childhood through her years as one of television’s familiar young stars.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen,” her representative said in a statement.

No additional details about the circumstances or cause of Panettiere’s death were immediately available.

Panettiere began working in the entertainment industry as a child and went on to build a career spanning television and film. Her early success eventually led to some of her most recognizable roles, including Claire Bennet on NBC’s hit superhero drama “Heroes.”

On “Heroes,” Panettiere played Claire, a high school cheerleader with the extraordinary ability to heal herself. The role helped make her a household name and earned her a large following during the show’s run.

She later took on another major television role as Juliette Barnes on the musical drama “Nashville.” Her portrayal of the ambitious and troubled country music star showcased a different side of her acting abilities and earned her critical attention.

Beyond television, Panettiere appeared in a number of popular films. Her credits include “Remember the Titans,” “Raising Helen,” “Ice Princess” and “Scream 4.”

Her career began when she was very young, and she spent much of her life in the public eye. Over the years, Panettiere was open about the pressures and personal challenges that came with growing up as a child performer and navigating adulthood in Hollywood.

In May, she released her memoir, “This Is Me: A Reckoning,” in which she reflected on her life, career and personal experiences.

The memoir offered readers a more personal look at the woman behind the roles that made her famous and represented another chapter in her effort to tell her own story.

Panettiere’s death marks a heartbreaking loss for her family, friends, colleagues and longtime fans. Many who watched her grow from a child performer into an accomplished actress are now remembering her work and the impact she had on audiences around the world.

Further information about her death and funeral arrangements was not immediately available.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Source ABC7

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