Here's What We Know About Panettiere Death

Law enforcement mentioned possible overdose of actor discovered in cardiac arrest
Posted Aug 17, 2026 9:55 AM CDT
Overdose Suspected in Panettiere Death
Hayden Panettiere arrives at the Jimmy Choo for H&M launch event in West Hollywood, Calif. on Nov. 2, 2009.   (AP Photo/Matt Sayles, File)

Hayden Panettiere's final hours are coming into sharper focus. Police and EMS responded Sunday afternoon to a 911 call about an unresponsive woman at a Greenville, SC, residence; the 36-year-old was later identified as Panettiere, authorities say. Law enforcement dispatch audio referenced an "overdose" and "cardiac arrest," per People. "I don't have any more information at this time, but it's looking as though that is the case," said a rep for the actor, per Rolling Stone.

TMZ reports a friend called 911 before first responders used advanced cardiac life support, including CPR, medications, and breathing tubes; Panettiere was ultimately pronounced dead at 2:32pm. Police say there are no early signs of foul play and the official cause of death will be released after an autopsy. Panettiere, known for Heroes, Nashville, and the Scream films, is survived by her 11-year-old daughter, Kaya, whom she shared with former fiancé Wladimir Klitschko. She spoke of her struggles with addiction and alcohol abuse in her memoir, released in May. (See Hollywood tributes to the actor here.)

Read These Next
Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X
More News: Politics | Business | Tech | Health | Entertainment