Justin Chatwin reveals Hayden Panettiere was 'struggling' during final movie

Justin Chatwin is remembering Hayden Panettiere following her death at 36, revealing that he could tell the actress was struggling while they worked together on her final movie, Sleepwalker.

Panettiere and Chatwin reunited for the psychological thriller after previously crossing paths during the early years of Heroes. Filmed in winter 2025 and released in January, Sleepwalker marked Panettiere’s final onscreen role. She portrayed a woman dealing with the loss of her daughter after a tragic car accident.

Speaking about their time on the film, Chatwin said Panettiere appeared different from when they first met and seemed to be dealing with personal difficulties. He recalled that she opened up to him about her experiences and struggles.

Chatwin said he could tell Panettiere was having a difficult time but did not believe the challenges were necessarily connected to the movie itself. He also described her as “really lonely” and said he valued the moments when she felt comfortable enough to be authentic.

Panettiere had spoken publicly about difficult experiences in her life and career, including addiction and trauma. She also detailed aspects of her personal journey in her memoir, This Is Me: A Reckoning, published earlier this year.

Sleepwalker director Brandon Auman also paid tribute to Panettiere, describing her as an open and deeply introspective person. He said their conversations about her life and the character she played would remain private.

Panettiere was found unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, on Aug. 16. Her death was confirmed by a representative for her family.

Chatwin said Panettiere’s death left him saddened and frustrated, while remembering her as a warm, open and talented performer. Her final film has since taken on additional significance for those who worked with her.