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Stars pay tribute to Panettiere, 36

FILE - Hayden Panettiere arrives at the 21st annual Critics' Choice Awards at the Barker Hangar on Jan. 17, 2016, in Santa Monica, Calif. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)

Stars are paying tribute to Hayden Panettiere after the actor's death at 36, including her "Nashville" co-star Connie Britton, Viola Davis, Melissa Barrera and Bethany Joy Lenz, along with podcaster Jay Shetty.

Panettiere was a prolific actor who rose to fame as a star on NBC's "Heroes" and scored a crossover TV-music hit with the series "Nashville." She was open about her struggles with alcohol and postpartum depression and stopped acting for several years, returning for "Scream VI" in 2023.

Connie Britton, actor

"Bursting with brilliance, shining so bright. I have no words for this sad song. Just heartbreak. I love you girl. Sleep easy now." -- via Instagram.

Bryan Fuller,

writer/producer

"Hayden was more than an actress she was a muse. Wise beyond her years and already saddled with so much of a life, she left an indelible mark on me as a writer and a storyteller. Incredibly sad news." -- via Instagram.

Kelly Osbourne,

TV host

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of someone who meant so much to me. We understood each other in a way few truly can -- recognizing how difficult it is to grow up in the spotlight, and how isolating it can feel even when surrounded by so many people." -- via Instagram

Ashlee Simpson, musician

"I'm deeply saddened by the news of Hayden Panettiere's passing. Rest in peace, Hayden. You will be deeply missed." -- via Instagram.

Jay Shetty, podcaster

"I can't believe it. Our friendship had just begun and I was so moved by the conversation we shared earlier this year. My love and condolences to her family and fans." -- via Instagram.

Starting at /week.