Police and emergency services were called at around 1:50 p.m. local time on Sunday to a property in Greenville, South Carolina, where Hayden Panettiere, 36, was staying.
"Upon arrival, medical care was initiated, but the person later identified as Hayden Panettiere was pronounced dead at the scene," police wrote in a statement.
The news has shocked Hollywood. The actress broke through in the groundbreaking TV series “Heroes” as a teenager in 2006. She later had a major role in the drama series “Nashville” and also appeared in the final season of the legal series “Ally McBeal.”
“A force of nature”
"It is with deep sadness that we announce the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought endless love and joy to all who knew her - and to the millions who watched her on screen," her spokesperson said in a statement to ABC.
Hayden Panettiere was a child actress who landed her first big role at the age of four. In her memoir, published earlier this year, she writes about her addiction and mental health issues.
Boxer
In her 20s, she began a relationship with Volodymyr Klitschko, then the world heavyweight boxing champion and 13 years her senior. The couple had a daughter who came to live with Klitschko in Europe when they parted ways in 2018.
On social media, stars are now expressing their dismay over Panettiere's death.
"I'm dying. Please be here. I love you. Please don't be gone," actor Selma Blair writes.
"Rest in peace dear Hayden," actor Melissa Barrera writes, who played opposite Panettiere in "Scream VI." David Arquette, who played opposite her in "Scream 4," writes: "I love you Hayden."
