Viola Davis calls Hayden Panettiere a 'beautiful Phoenix' in heartfelt tribute after her death
GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA: Viola Davis has mourned the death of Hayden Panettiere after her untimely death on Sunday, August 16.
In a heartfelt social media post, she called Panettiere “beautiful Phoenix” while wishing “the world had more time with you.”
Viola Davis calls Hayden Panettiere a 'beautiful Phoenix'
Davis’ Instagram share included a photo of Panettiere as it read, “What an amazing talent you were....so gifted. Julius and I loved working with you....an old, wise soul with such a deep heart.”
Continuing further, the 61-year-old actress, who worked with Panettiere in the 2016 movie ‘Custody’, stated, “I wish the world had more time with you because I had a burning curiosity about who you were becoming. I saw this beautiful Phoenix rising from the ashes.”
Davis described Panettiere as an “old, wise soul” and reflected on the actress' talent and the time they spent working together.
Viola Davis sends healing prayers for Hayden Panettiere's daughter
Davis also went on to highlight the hardships the former child actress faced in her life as she wrote, “Your tests became your testimony, and your testimony became your legacy. You will be remembered. Rest well, Hayden.”
“Sending healing prayers to your family, your daughter, and all who loved you. May they always speak your name,” the film producer added.
The ‘Nashville’ star was only 36 when she died. She leaves behind a daughter named Kaya Evdokia Klitschko, whom she had with her former heavyweight boxing champion ex-partner Wladimir Klitschko, in 2014.
Davis' tribute came as fellow stars and friends remembered Panettiere following her death, with many honoring her career and the impact she had on those around her.
Hayden Panettiere was 'unresponsive' when first responders arrived
Panettiere’s death was announced by her father, Skip, who said, “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. 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.”
He also urged for privacy “as our family takes time to process this unimaginable loss.”
Later, a press release was issued by the Greenville County Coroner's Office that stated that Panettiere was found “unresponsive” by first responders and emergency medical services as they reached a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, after receiving a 911 call.
“Upon arrival, medical assistance was administered; however, the individual, later identified as Hayden Panettiere, was pronounced deceased at the scene,” Greenville Police Department said, before adding, “The preliminary investigation has not indicated any signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances. An acquaintance of Ms. Panettiere placed the 911 call.”
