Hayden Panettiere's friends and former co-stars share tributes

Friends and former co-stars of actress Hayden Panettiere are sharing tributes to the actress who soared to fame two decades ago as a cheerleader with superpowers in the TV show "Heroes" and won country music success playing a singer on "Nashville."

Police said Panettiere was found unresponsive in an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina, shortly before 2 p.m. Sunday. Lifesaving measures were performed but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mario Lopez says he's heartbroken

Mario Lopez shared his own tribute on Instagram saying:  

"Heartbroken over the loss of Hayden. I’ll always remember her warmth & beautiful spirit. Having known her family makes this loss feel especially personal. I’m holding Lesley and Skip close to my heart. Rest peacefully, you will be deeply missed

Alyson Stoner shares emotional tribute

Actress, singer, dancer, author, and mental health advocate Alyson Stoner share an emotional video tribute on Facebook:

"From one Kairi to another… One sky, one destiny. 

My deepest condolences to Hayden’s family, community, and the many lives Hayden reached.

May you rest in freedom, Hayden. 

And sending love to my fellow KH community worldwide who have cherished Hayden’s work as Kairi through the decades.

Take care"

Kelly Osbourne shares personal tribute

Kelly Osbourne shared a deeply personal tribute, speaking about the bond the two shared through their experiences growing up in the public eye.

"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," Osbourne wrote on her Instagram Stories.

"My heart grieves for someone so special to this world and such a good friend to me," she continued. "I will never forget you, Hayden, and I will always believe you deserved better."

Osbourne concluded her tribute: "Rest in peace, sweet princess. You will never be forgotten.

Heroes co-stars Dania Ramirez and James Kyson honor Hayden

Dania Ramirez, who starred alongside Hayden on "Heroes," reflected on the love and energy she says Hayden brought to those around her.

"My heart aches so much right now. I love you and will always miss you," Ramirez shared on Instagram. "I take comfort in knowing that I am with you in life and in death because your love and energy has always transcended this dimension."

Ramirez also sent her thoughts to Hayden’s daughter and loved ones, adding, "I know that the ones that got to feel your gifts will forever feel blessed and grateful for you."

Fellow "Heroes" co-star James Kyson recalled first meeting Hayden when she was just 16, describing her as a veteran actor with a "bright spirit" and an "older soul."

Kyson remembered Hayden as "a fierce protector of animal rights" and a "‘cheerleader’ for kindness, justice, and people being treated fairly."

"May your soul Rest in Peace Hayden… and my deepest condolences & prayers for her family," he wrote on Instagram. "Life can be so short… let’s send some love out to the world, our loved ones, and to those who need it most today."

Rosie O’Donnell says she is heartbroken

Rosie O’Donnell shared her shock in a brief Instagram reaction, writing, "Oh my god — heartbroken."

Selma Blair says she is in disbelief

Selma Blair posted an emotional message of disbelief. 

"I love you. Don’t be gone. Don’t be gone. Please. Please," Blair wrote on Instagram.

David Arquette shares brief tribute

David Arquette, who appeared with Panettiere in "Scream 4," also shared his heartbreak, writing on his Instagram saying:

"I love you Hayden."

Melissa Barrera remembers Hayden

Melissa Barrera who co-starred with Panettiere in "Scream VI" remembered the actress on her Instagram story, writing, "Rest in peace sweet Hayden."

‘One Tree Hill’ star Bethany Joy Lenz" "I'm crushed"

"One Tree Hill" actress Bethany Joy Lenz shared an emotional tribute to Hayden Panettiere, recalling knowing the actress since childhood and expressing disbelief over her death at 36.

"I’m crushed," Lenz wrote on Instagram. "I knew the wild little blonde. Was she nine? Ten? I was eighteen."

Lenz recalled Panettiere running through the halls of Screen Gems studios as a child, describing her as remarkably perceptive and talented even at a young age.

"Her intelligence was astonishing," Lenz wrote. "She understood scenes and nuance and human struggle like no child I’d ever seen on camera."

The actress said she and Panettiere remained connected on and off for nearly three decades, comparing their relationship to cousins who would reconnect at family reunions. Although the two repeatedly made plans to get together, Lenz said those meetings never quite happened and she largely kept up with Panettiere through mutual friends.

"I dont understand how this is real," Lenz wrote. "Everything seemed to be turning around. She was coming BACK to life, wasn’t she? It’s too young and there’s still so much more life."

Lenz also expressed regret over the times she did not reach out and shared her heartbreak for Panettiere’s daughter.

"These are moments of how I knew you, in glimpses over 27 years," she wrote alongside photos of them over the years. "I don’t know how to process this. I am praying for you to know the peace of God now and always."

Viola Davis remembers Hayden Panettiere

Viola Davis paid tribute to her former co-star Hayden Panettiere. Davis shared the emotional message on Instagram after Panettiere’s death at age 36. Davis and her husband, Julius Tennon, starred alongside Panettiere in the 2016 courtroom drama "Custody."

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

The Oscar-winning actress reflected on Panettiere’s life and legacy, writing that she wished "the world had more time" with her.

"I saw this beautiful Phoenix rising from the ashes," Davis wrote. "Your tests became your testimony, and your testimony became your legacy. You will be remembered."

Davis concluded by sending "healing prayers" to Panettiere’s family, daughter and loved ones, adding, "Rest well, Hayden. … May they always speak your name."

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