Fans are remembering Hayden Panettiere, who passed away August 16 at age 36.
When reflecting on the roles that defined her career, Panettiere left behind a diverse body of work ranging from her childhood roles in soap operas to her star-making turn as an indestructible cheerleader in “Heroes,” to her mesmerizing performance truly as a troubled country singer in “Nashville.”
‘Ice Princess’ Remains a Favorite of Fans
Beyond those projects, one that remains a favorite of fans is “Ice Princess,” the 2005 Disney drama set within the world of competitive figure skating.
The film follows a plucky teenage skater with big dreams (played by Michelle Trachtenberg), with Panettiere playing her skating rival — who eventually becomes her friend and ally.
With the sad passing of Panettiere coming the year after that of Trachtenberg — who passed away in May 2025 — the film’s director is coming forward to share his memories of working with the two stars at that early point in their careers.
Director Tim Frywell Pays Tribute to ‘An Amazing Pair’
Tim Frywell, who directed the two late actresses in “Ice Princess,” issued a sweet statement to Variety in which he remembers his time with them.
“It was really upsetting to hear yesterday of the death of Hayden Panettiere at the age of 36,” Fywell said.
“I remember a brave, sparky, dedicated young actress who lit up the set in rehearsals and then the screen with her vibrant talent,” he continued. “Michelle Trachtenberg, Hayden’s co-star in the movie, and she were an amazing pair.”
‘Very Different Personalities’
In his statement, Frywell recalls their “very different personalities,” remembering Trachtenberg as “kooky, fun, with an infectious laugh and her brilliant sad-funny comic timing.”
Meanwhile, he recalled Panettiere as being “plucky and determined and perfectionist, spending hours practicing her skating and utterly focused on getting every acting take spot-on and truthful. Which she did.”
As Frywell points out, “Ice Princess” was a challenging film for both of the young stars, who had to master figure skating in addition to their acting.
“In what was often a tough and technically complicated shoot, and my first Hollywood movie, they were delightful to work with and great to have around,” he adds.
“I remember them both with huge affection, how they were 20 odd years ago, at that relatively uncomplicated time of their lives, two shining talents, gone far too soon,” he concludes.”
Kim Cattrall’s Sweet Tribute
In “Ice Princess,” Panettiere worked with Kim Cattrall, with the “Sex and the City” star portraying her character’s mother in the movie.
Following Panettiere’s passing, Cattrall shared a tribute via social media.
Taking to Instagram, Cattrall posted a photo of herself and Panettiere in a scene from the movie.
“Rest in peace, sweet Hayden,” she wrote in the caption. “Gone far too soon 💔.”
Fans shared their own tributes by offering comments to Cattrall’s post. “Still shocked. You two made such a great team in Ice Princess ❤️❤️,” one wrote.
“You were both so good in this movie 🩷 one of my all time favs. 🙏,” added another.
“Such a heartbreaking loss. Can’t even find the words to describe it all. We will miss Hayden so much😢💔🙏🏼,” wrote a fan.
