Following the tragic death of actress Hayden Panettiere, former co-star Madeline Zima has come forward with touching recollections of working alongside the beloved performer, expressing hope that Panettiere's young daughter will someday understand the remarkable person her mother was.
Panettiere was found unresponsive Sunday at a South Carolina residence, according to reports. First responders attempted resuscitation, but the actress did not survive. She was 36 years old.
Zima, who appeared alongside Panettiere in the hit television series Heroes, described the actress as someone who possessed both heart and courage, telling TMZ.com that Panettiere consistently demonstrated exceptional kindness throughout their time working together.
Drawing on her extensive experience in the entertainment industry—Zima began her career at age 8 starring in The Nanny—the actress characterized Panettiere as among the most compassionate and loving individuals she has encountered in Hollywood. Zima noted that Panettiere prioritized the well-being of others, even when doing so required maintaining distance from them.
The former co-star stated she is sharing these memories in hopes that Panettiere's daughter, Kaya, will eventually come to know her mother through the affection and recollections of those who worked with her.
Zima and Panettiere worked together during the fourth season of Heroes, where they filmed a memorable scene together. Panettiere served as a central figure on the series, appearing in 75 of the show's 77 total episodes—more than any other cast member. Zima was credited for 10 episodes during the program's final season.
During her tenure on Heroes, Panettiere began a relationship with boxer Wladimir Klitschko in 2009 that would span nine years. The couple welcomed their daughter Kaya in 2014. Klitschko gained full custody of Kaya in 2018.
The loss of Panettiere has prompted an outpouring of remembrances from colleagues and fans alike, with Zima's tribute highlighting the personal impact the actress had on those who knew her professionally. Her comments underscore a desire to preserve Panettiere's legacy for her daughter, ensuring that Kaya will have access to stories that illuminate her mother's character and the positive influence she had on others in the entertainment community.