Frankie Muniz is remembering his former Malcolm in the Middle costar Hayden Panettiere following the actress's death at the age of 36.
Muniz shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, looking back on the time they spent working together and describing the memories they created as something he will always treasure.
Frankie Muniz Remembers Hayden Panettiere
Muniz, 40, shared a photo of himself with Panettiere alongside a heartfelt message after news of her death broke on Aug. 16.
The actor recalled working with Panettiere on several projects and said he always had a great time with her.
He also reflected on the many stories and memories they shared, ending his message with a wish for her to rest in peace.
The tribute comes as friends, former costars and fellow entertainers continue to remember Panettiere and celebrate her career.
Hayden Panettiere's Role in Malcolm in the Middle
Panettiere appeared in four episodes of the hit Fox sitcom Malcolm in the Middle between 2003 and 2005.
She played Jessica, a spirited babysitter who became an occasional love interest for Malcolm, the character played by Muniz.
The role gave Panettiere an opportunity to explore a different type of character from many of the roles audiences associated with her at the time.
In a previous interview, Panettiere recalled that she particularly enjoyed playing Jessica because the character was very different from how people typically viewed her.
She described the experience as fun and expressed an interest in doing more comedy during her career.
Bryan Cranston Helped Her Land the Role
Panettiere previously revealed that Bryan Cranston, who starred as Malcolm's father Hal and directed some episodes of the series, played an important role in her getting the part.
According to Panettiere, Cranston initially told her that she did not appear to be an obvious fit for the character, but decided to give her an opportunity.
The actress remembered the moment as one of the first times someone in the industry had taken a chance on her.
Cranston also had a connection to Panettiere's family. He had previously worked with her mother, Lesley Vogel, on the soap opera Loving.
A Career That Spanned Film and Television
Panettiere began working as an actress at a young age and went on to appear in numerous television shows and films.
She became particularly well known for roles in projects including Heroes, Nashville and Remember the Titans, building a career that extended across television, film and voice acting.
Her death has prompted tributes from numerous former costars and friends, many of whom have highlighted her talent, personality and impact on those around her.
Hayden Panettiere Dies at 36
Panettiere's family confirmed her death on Aug. 16, just days before her 37th birthday.
Her father, Alan Panettiere, described her as an extraordinary presence who brought love and joy to people around her.
Police and emergency medical personnel responded to a report of an unresponsive woman at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, on the afternoon of Aug. 16.
Authorities said a preliminary investigation had not indicated signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances.
An official cause of death had not been released at the time of the report.
A Growing Wave of Tributes
Muniz is among a growing number of entertainers who have publicly mourned Panettiere.
Former Nashville costars, television colleagues and other actors have shared their own memories and tributes following her death.
For fans who grew up watching Panettiere on screen, her passing marks the loss of an actress who became a familiar face in Hollywood from childhood and remained active in the entertainment industry for decades.
Her performances, particularly in Heroes, Nashville and Remember the Titans, have left a lasting place in the memories of audiences around the world.
Keywords: Frankie Muniz, Hayden Panettiere, Hayden Panettiere death, Frankie Muniz tribute, Malcolm in the Middle, Hollywood news, celebrity news, Hayden Panettiere tribute, Heroes actress, celebrity deaths, TV stars