Tributes continue to pour in for actress Hayden Panettiere, who tragically passed away on August 16 at the age of 36. Having started her career in Hollywood as a child, Panettiere touched countless lives throughout her decades-long career, appearing in numerous TV shows and films.
One of those heartfelt tributes comes from actor, professional stock car driver, and former “Dancing With the Stars” contestant Frankie Muniz. Fans who grew up watching the beloved sitcom “Malcolm in the Middle” may remember Panettiere’s brief appearance on the series. While her role was short-lived, it was certainly memorable.
Frankie Muniz Honors Hayden Panettiere With Heartfelt Tribute
GettyFrankie Muniz is paying tribute to his late “Malcolm in the Middle” co-star Hayden Panettiere with a touching tribute, honoring the actress who appeared alongside him in just a few episodes of the cherished sitcom.
Taking to Instagram, Muniz shared a photo posing alongside Panettiere in their younger years, and wrote, “Very sad to hear about Hayden. I got to work with her on many projects and always had an absolutely great time with her.”
The actor also shared that he has “so many amazing stories and memories” with Panettiere. “I hope she rests in peace,” he ended his post.
Panettiere was just 14 when she acted alongside Muniz and the rest of the “Malcolm in the Middle” cast in just four episodes between 2003 and 2005. However, her role as Jessica, a babysitter and love interest of Muniz’s character, was unforgettable.
Fans in Muniz’s comment section also looked back fondly on her role as Jessica. “100% rewatching those eps, classics. She was amazing, RIP 🙏❤️,” a comment read. “My favorite one with both of you was the one where she makes you and Reese both confused about each other. 🕊️,” another wrote.
“Malcolm & Jessica for ever ❤️🥺,” a comment read.
Panettiere Once Reflected on Her Memorable ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ Role
GettyJust a year ago, Panettiere opened up to Entertainment Weekly about her memorable time on “Malcolm in the Middle,” fondly reflecting on the experience while revealing a few surprise details on how she ultimately landed the role.
“I remember the whole audition process. I only got the role because Bryan Cranston (who starred as Hal, Malcolm’s dad) was directing. That is my true belief, because he was an actor. He looked at me and said, ‘You’re so wrong for this. But we’re going to make it work.’ That was the first time I had ever experienced someone really taking a chance on me,” Panettiere said.
Panettiere went on to explain why she particularly enjoyed the role, noting that it was different from the characters she typically plays, telling the outlet that it wasn’t “the normal role that you would see me in, but to play a completely out of the box character was so much fun. I loved it, I love comedy, and I hope to do more comedy in my career.”
Before landing the role of Jessica, Panettiere starred in two popular soaps, including “One Life to Live” and “Guiding Light,” as a kid. She would also go on to star in one of her most cherished roles in the popular film “Remember the Titans.”
