Hayden Panettiere suffered from severe back pain and mobility issues in the months leading up to her sudden death at age 36. The “Nashville” star died on Sunday at an Airbnb rental inside the Judson Mill Lofts apartment complex in Greenville, South Carolina, after paramedics responded to a 911 call regarding an apparent cardiac arrest and overdose.
Debilitating Back Pain and Mobility Struggles
In the months prior to her passing, Panettiere dealt with debilitating physical ailments that severely impacted her daily life. Erick Orellana, the actress’s hairdresser and close friend, told Page Six that Panettiere suffered from “really severe” back problems earlier in the year. The pain became so intense that it caused noticeable mobility challenges.
“At one point, it was even hard for her to move her legs,” Orellana said.
Public Sightings and Emergency Response
Public sightings confirmed her physical struggles. In March, Panettiere was photographed at Los Angeles International Airport using crutches to navigate the terminal, with assistance from an airport worker. A second source told Page Six that the actress also dealt with intermittent anxiety and occasional fatigue, noting that she occasionally took medication to manage her symptoms.
Paramedics arrived at the South Carolina rental on Sunday afternoon following a 911 call reporting an unidentified female in cardiac arrest. A 911 dispatch call obtained by Page Six indicated that authorities classified the incident as an overdose and that CPR was actively in progress. Emergency responders attempted to resuscitate Panettiere using advanced life support and chest compressions before pronouncing her dead at 2:32 p.m.
Autopsy Results and Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement sources told TMZ that Narcan, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, was recovered at the scene. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office stated that an autopsy was completed on Monday, confirming no signs of foul play or trauma contributed to the death. The coroner’s office noted that the official cause of death remains pending while the investigation stays active.
Family Statement and Tumultuous Final Months
The actress’s father, Skip Panettiere, released a statement on Sunday confirming the loss.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” he said. “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.”
Reporting from The New York Times and People detailed additional challenges in Panettiere’s personal life surrounding her recent book tour and disputes involving her ex-boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, highlighting a tumultuous period leading up to her final months. Authorities have not released further details regarding the ongoing toxicology and coroner’s investigations.
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