Connie Britton has “no words” following the death of her “Nashville” co-star Hayden Panettiere at 36 years old. The duo starred together on five seasons of the ABC country music drama from 2012 to 2016, with Panettiere headlining the series solo during its sixth and final season in 2018. Britton returned as a guest star during the final episodes.
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“This was Hayden. Bursting with brilliance, shining so bright,” Britton posted on social media alongside a slideshow of photos of Panettiere and herself over the years. “I have no words for this sad song. Just heartbreak. I love you girl. Sleep easy now.”
“Nashville,” created by “Thelma & Louise” Oscar winner Callie Khouri, premiered on ABC in October 2012 with Britton as Rayna Jaymes, a country music superstar, and Panettiere as Juliette Barnes, the rising country superstar who becomes Rayna’s rival. The actors earned critical acclaim for their performances. Britton picked up an Emmy nomination in 2013 for outstanding lead actress in a drama series, while Panettiere scored a Golden Globe nomination the following year for best supporting actress. Panettiere was also nominated for a Critics’ Choice TV Award in 2016.
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Panettiere died on Sunday in Greenville, South Carolina, at the age of 36. Her death is currently under investigation, but there were “not any signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances,” according to police. The cause of Panettiere’s death has not yet been confirmed, but People reported that on the dispatch audio, which the outlet obtained, officials could be heard discussing an “overdose” and “cardiac arrest.” An official cause of death will be given following an autopsy.
“Nashville” was Panettiere’s second hit television series following the breakout run of NBC’s “Heroes,” which starred in for four seasons.
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