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Hayden Panettiere's death at 36 is a heartbreaking loss of a genuinely talented actress, from "Heroes" to "Nashville," who battled addiction and personal tragedy with remarkable openness. She was a force of nature who brought joy to millions, and the outpouring of grief from co-stars and fans alike proves how deeply she touched people. The entertainment world is a dimmer place without her, coming just as life seemed to be turning around.
Hayden Panettiere died just three months after publishing a memoir exposing horrific exploitation by powerful Hollywood figures. She detailed being abused on a yacht at 18 and enduring predatory behavior at industry gatherings, while also facing longstanding allegations related to trafficking involving her mother. She finally told her story, and now she's gone. The Hollywood establishment has much to answer for.