After beloved “Nashville” actress Hayden Panettiere passed away at 36 this week, many are seeking answers.
Panettiere admittedly struggled with mental health issues prior to her passing. She bravely spoke out about her battle with addiction and postpartum depression.
Right now, authorities do not believe foul play played a part in her death. However, journalist Nancy Grace believes they might have made the call too early.
Nancy Grace Wants More Information About Hayden Panettiere’s Tragic Passing
After Hayden Panettiere’s tragic passing on August 16, lovely tributes poured in from fans and celebrities alike. No one wanted to believe the “Remember The Titans” actress was no longer living. According to the coroner’s report, no foul play has been detected.
“At autopsy no signs of trauma were discovered that would have contributed to the death,” the official Greenville County coroner’s office reported, as shared by local station WYFF. The cause and manner of death remain pending further investigation and the completion of additional studies. This investigation remains active and ongoing. No further details are available for release at this time.”
As authorities investigate the scene, many others are asking questions. Journalist Nancy Grace recently shared her own thoughts on the situation. She believes that the authorities may have acted in haste.
“When I find a dead body, I don’t just assume there’s no foul play. That’s completely irresponsible,” Grace stated on her show, “Crime Stories,” as reported by Us Weekly.
“Who? What? Where? When? Why? Where was she found? When was she found? Give me the circumstances. What was found at the scene? Was anybody there? Help me out,” the 66-year-old asked of her reporter.
Right now, the authorities are releasing information as they see fit. The DEA has recently joined the investigation.
The Family Requests Privacy Moving Forward
Many fans felt understandably devastated by Hayden Panettiere’s passing. As the investigation continues, her family has asked for privacy as they mourn her.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” the late star’s father, Scott Panettiere, told Us Weekly. “She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen. We ask for privacy as our family takes time to process this unimaginable loss.”
Hayden Panettiere’s younger brother, Jansen, also passed away incredibly young. In 2023, he passed away from heart issues at 28.
“My little brother Jansen would’ve turned 31 today,” his older sister shared on Instagram in September 2025. She attached a sweet photo of them as children.
“He was a remarkable human being,” Panettiere continued, listing her favorite qualities about her brother. “I miss him every single day but I know his spirit is always near, watching over and protecting me and my family. I love you to infinity and beyond J and we will be together again one day. #JansenPanettiere @jrpanettiere #littlebrothers”
Our hearts go out to the Panettiere family as they mourn the loss of their beloved Hayden.
