American actress Hayden Panettiere, best known for her roles in the television series Heroes and Nashville, has passed away.

She was 36.

The actress’ father, Skip Panettiere, confirmed her demise on Monday, expressing his sadness at the passing of his daughter.

Mr Panettiere said, “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.”

However, her family did not disclose the circumstances of her death but requested privacy.

The actress began her career as a child, introduced to the arts, and landed her first major role as Sarah Roberts in soap opera One Life to Live in 1994.  

In the early 2000’s she gained global recognition for her roles in superhero TV show Heroes and musical drama series Nashville. Her contribution to Nashville earned her two Golden Globe nominations.

She also appeared on several other TV and film credits, which include A Bug’s Life, Remember the Titans, Joe Somebody, Raising Helen, Racing Stripes, Ice Princess, Bring It On: All or Nothing, I Love You, Beth Cooper, Scream 4, and Scream VI.

Earlier this year, Ms Panettiere opened up about her battle with alcohol addiction, depression, and the loss of her brother, Jansen Panettiere, in 2023

She is survived by her daughter, Kaya Klitschko, with her ex-partner, Ukrainian boxer Wladimir Klitschko.