While the culture around child stars has changed since Panettiere grew up, sources told NBC News that fully protecting young performers from harm remains nearly impossible.Hayden Panettiere described feeling like “a little soldier" on sets as a child and said she first took drugs at age 16. Justine Goode / NBC News; Getty Aug. 20, 2026, 5:00 AM EDTLOS ANGELES — The sudden death of “Heroes” and “Nashville” star Hayden Panettiere has reignited questions about an entertainment industry that turns kids into moneymakers, with sometimes dire consequences for their well-being. Just a moment.We are getting your experience ready.
Hayden Panettiere’s death puts Hollywood’s treatment of child stars back in focus
While the culture around child stars has changed since Panettiere grew up, sources told NBC News that fully protecting young performers from harm remains nearly impossible.
98 words~1 min read
