Hayden Panettiere’s closest friends gathered in Malibu on Saturday, September 19, for a private celebration of life, roughly five weeks after the actress was found dead at 36 in Greenville, South Carolina. About 80 guests attended the intimate ceremony, which was planned by her inner circle, including close friend Sanoe Lake. The tribute was built entirely around the things she loved: doves released for peace and freedom, a hula dance honoring her connection to Hawaii, and musical performances that included“Free,”the song she originally sang on Nashville.
The evening ended with three bells rung as a farewell to fallen soldiers, followed by a reception with pizza, salad, and a candy bar of her favorite sweets. Guests left with Aviator Nation hats inscribed with her initials. Her father, Skip Panettiere, attended, while her mother, Lesley Vogel, was invited but unable to be there. Connie Britton, Evan Ross, and Ruby Rose were among the guests who came to pay their respects.
Panettiere is survived by her parents and her daughter Kaya, 11. Kaya’s father, Wladimir Klitschko, shared on Instagram that Hayden was an important part of his life and an incredible talent who also faced the darker sides of a very demanding industry. Her cause of death remains pending.
Which Hayden Panettiere role meant the most to you, Heroes or Nashville? Tell us in the comments.
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Local Lawton
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