Stars gather in Malibu for Hayden Panettiere memorial

Friends and former co-stars gathered in Malibu, California, on Saturday for a memorial honoring the late actress Hayden Panettiere, a month after her death. The ceremony was held at a local church and was organized by Panettiere’s family, including her father Skip Panettiere, with about 150 attendees.

Former "Nashville" co-star Connie Britton, 59, delivered a speech and appeared somber as she entered the venue. Fellow cast member Charles Esten also spoke and performed one of Panettiere’s songs from the series. Additional alumni from the show, such as Lennon Stella and Jonathan Jackson, were present, along with other celebrities including Evan Ross, Paris Hilton and Ruby Rose. Doves were released outside the church before the service.

A sign inside the church displayed a vintage photograph of Panettiere smiling on a boat, accompanied by the words: "Honoring the life & legacy of Hayden Panettiere. 8.21.89 – 8.16.26."

Representatives for Panettiere, Britton and Esten did not respond to requests for comment. Panettiere’s ex-fiancé, former boxer Wladimir Klitschko, and their daughter Kaya were not photographed at the event. Klitschko posted a brief message on Facebook mourning Panettiere’s death and later shared an Instagram note encouraging fans to practice forgiveness and kindness.

Reports indicate that Panettiere’s mother, Lesley Vogel, and boyfriend Brian Hickerson did not attend; Vogel said she was unable to come due to a family emergency. Hickerson, who was present at the time of Panettiere’s death in August, declined to comment when asked about his condition.

The investigation into Panettiere’s death, ruled an apparent overdose, remains ongoing. Federal officials have found no evidence of foul play but are focusing on a Los Angeles drug dealer linked to the case.