Neve Campbell and her fellow “Scream” franchise stars are remembering Hayden Panettiere as a warm, magnetic presence whose talent left a mark far beyond the horror genre, following her death Sunday at age 36.
In a statement shared with The Hollywood Reporter, Campbell described the actress in personal terms rather than professional accolades. “I found Hayden to be really kind and funny and brought a magnetic energy to set,” Campbell said. “She was a true talent which shows in the decades she worked in such a short life. Her family and loved ones are in my prayers.”
Panettiere was found unresponsive and in cardiac arrest at an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina, with officials on a 911 call reportedly discussing an overdose. Authorities have not released an official cause of death, though the Greenville Police Department said its preliminary investigation found no signs of foul play.
Panettiere originated the role of Kirby Reed, a horror-obsessed teenager, in 2011’s “Scream 4,” directed by franchise creator Wes Craven. The character appeared to die in that film, but years of fan campaigning eventually brought Kirby back as an FBI agent in 2023’s “Scream VI.” Melissa Barrera, who co-starred with Panettiere in that installment before her own firing from the franchise over comments on the Israel-Hamas war, wrote on Instagram, “Rest in peace sweet Hayden,” alongside a broken heart emoji.
Nancy Nayor, who cast Panettiere for “Scream 4” alongside Avy Kaufman and Rick Rosenthal, told THR that Panettiere stood out immediately as a contrast to co-star Emma Roberts. “They were just visually and energetically very different, and we thought they would be great together,” Nayor said, describing Panettiere’s approach to the role as driven by “her fierce warrior nature.” Nayor added that Panettiere had been open about her struggles throughout her career, calling her passing tragic even as she praised her as “a very talented actress and beautiful soul.”
Panettiere’s career spanned more than three decades, from early roles in “Remember the Titans” and “Heroes” to her long-running part in “Nashville.” She is survived by an 11-year-old daughter.
