Washington, Aug. 17 -- Hayden Panettiere, best known for her roles in 'Heroes' and 'Nashville', has died at the age of 36. Her representative confirmed the news to PEOPLE on behalf of her father, Alan Panettiere.

"It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden," her father said in a statement as per PEOPLE.

He remembered the actress as someone who brought love and happiness to the people around her and to the millions who watched her work.

"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 added.

According to the publication, Panettiere died on Sunday, August 16. Her cause of death has not be...