Anna Paquin calls attention to challenges faced by former child actresses

Actress Anna Paquin used Instagram on Friday to honor the late "Heroes" star Hayden Panettiere and to highlight the difficulties encountered by former child performers such as Michelle Trachtenberg and Daveigh Chase. Paquin wrote that it is not a coincidence that many pre-adolescent female actors experience serious personal struggles later in life, adding that the protective systems meant to safeguard them often fall short.

She said she considers herself part of a "strange, small club" with Panettiere, Trachtenberg and Chase, and invited other former child actors to contact her for assistance. "You are worthy of support, no matter how our industry made us feel," Paquin posted, adding that she believes them and will stand by their side.

Panettiere died on Aug. 16 in Greenville, South Carolina, at age 36, with authorities noting a possible overdose at the scene. Trachtenberg died at 39 on Feb. 26, 2025, from complications of diabetes, ruled a natural death. Chase died at 35 on June 16, with AIDS identified as the primary cause. Other former child stars, including Alexa PenaVega, also expressed condolences on social media, noting the shared hardships of growing up in the entertainment industry.

"You aren’t alone. Let’s have each other’s backs. It might make public disclosure less terrifying," Paquin concluded.