Canadian audiences are mourning the sudden death of US star Hayden Panettiere, 36, whose body was found in Greenville, South Carolina, on Sunday.
Police were called after an acquaintance reported that the actress was "unresponsive" and in "cardiac arrest".
Despite desperate efforts to revive her, her devastated family later confirmed her death.
Her father, Skip Panettiere, said in a statement: "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 asked that the family be given privacy as they "take time to process this unimaginable loss".
Her passing has resonated across the border, where her shows such as "Heroes" and "Nashville" have enjoyed strong viewership on Canadian networks.
Investigation and autopsy
A post‑mortem examination has now been completed by the Greenville County coroner's office, which said that "no signs of trauma were discovered that would have contributed to the death". However, her cause and manner of death have yet to be confirmed. Officials are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death, with the coroner saying further tests must be completed before the cause can be determined.
Tributes from co‑stars
Tributes have poured in from heartbroken fans and co‑stars, including Oscar‑winning actress Viola Davis, who described Panettiere as an "old, wise soul with such a deep heart".
Panettiere began acting as a child, appearing in soap operas before gaining wider recognition for her role in the 2000 sports drama "Remember The Titans" alongside Denzel Washington, and as the voice of Dot in Pixar's 1998 film "A Bug's Life".
She later found fame playing cheerleader Claire Bennet in the superhero drama "Heroes" before starring as up‑and‑coming country singer Juliette Barnes for six seasons on the hit TV series Nashville. Her performances earned her two Golden Globe nominations and multiple entries on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs charts.
Friends and colleagues, including long‑time friend Bethany Joy Lenz, expressed their shock and sorrow, recalling memories of Panettiere's early career and wishing her peace.