Hayden Panettiere passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at the age of 36. The actress was found dead in an apartment in Greenville, leaving fans and members of the entertainment industry in shock. Panettiere, who began her career as a child actor before becoming one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars, is being remembered by many of her former costars.
Soap stars pay tribute to Hayden Panettiere after her passing
Several actors took to social media to remember Hayden Panettiere following her tragic death.
“Hayden played my daughter for 3 years. She was the most brilliant child actor I’ve ever seen,” wrote Beth Chamberlin, as Panettiere played her daughter on Guiding Light. She continued, “The things she could do, the way she could remember 20+ pages of dialogue, day after day.”
Chamberlin further wrote, “Even on days where the director would come out between dress and tape and make huge cuts to the scenes, Hayden never once forgot a line or missed her blocking.” The 62-year-old added, “The adults would, but not Hayden. I felt blessed to work with her. And always perfect in her playing of the scene.”
Rebecca Budig also recalled her experience working with Panettiere. “Loved her and her family. She and Beth [Chamberlin] were spectacular together,” Budig wrote in the comment section of an Instagram tribute.
She added, “So sad for her family and those who knew and loved her.” Gina Tognoni said, “Peace to you — so sorry to hear this. I saw your heart in everything you did.” Moreover, Laura Wright described Panettiere as “pure magic” on her Instagram Stories while expressing sadness over the news (via Soap Opera Digest).
Brittany Snow shared a detailed tribute on her Instagram stories, praising the late actress. “I was lucky enough to play your sister for 3 years. I related to you so much in so many ways. Ways that I never even told you,” she wrote.
The 40-year-old praised her remarkable talent and her “determination to be a bold, bright shining light.” Snow continued to praise the actress before concluding, “You will always be remembered undoubtedly for your undeniable strength and spirit.”
Burgess Jenkins wrote, “Hayden was a light and a good friend. You are loved and missed. Rest in Peace, Hay Hay.”
