'An incredible light': Viola Davis and Bethany Joy Lenz mourn Hayden Panettiere

Viola Davis and other Hollywood celebrities paid tribute to the actress Hayden Panettiere. Her representative confirmed the news to PEOPLE on behalf of her father, Alan Panettiere.

He remembered the actress as someone who brought love and happiness to the people around her and to the millions who watched her work. Actress Viola Davis paid tribute to Panettiere on her Instagram handle by describing her as a "talented and gifted" actress.

What Happened

What an amazing talent you were....so gifted. Julius and I loved working with you....an old, wise soul with such a deep heart.

• The actress began her career as a child, appearing in the ABC soap opera 'One Life to Live' in 1994.

• She later worked on CBS' 'Guiding Light' before making her film debut as the voice of Princess Dot in Pixar's 'A Bug's Life' in 1998.

• In 2006, Panettiere took on the role of cheerleader Claire Bennet in NBC's 'Heroes'.

Key Details

I wish the world had more time with you because I had a burning curiosity about who you were becoming. I saw this beautiful Phoenix rising from the ashes.

• After 'Heroes' ended in 2010, she appeared in 'Scream 4' and later returned to the franchise with 'Scream 6' in 2023.

• From 2012 to 2018, she played Juliette Barnes in the ABC musical drama 'Nashville', appearing across all six seasons.

• Panettiere later returned to films with projects including 'Amber Alert', 'A Breed Apart' and 'Sleepwalker', which was her final film role.

Why It Matters

Your tests became your testimony, and your testimony became your legacy. Sending healing prayers to your family, your daughter, and all who loved you.

• The show became a major part of her career and brought her international recognition.

• She went on to appear in films including 'Remember the Titans', 'Tiger Cruise' and 'Ice Princess'.

What Reports Say

Coverage of the story so far points to:

• Continued reporting by Mid-Day as more details emerge