Beyond her talents as an actress, Hayden Panettiere, who began her Hollywood career at just four years old and went on to land memorable roles in Heroes and the Scream franchise, also had some incredible vocal chops.
The late star, who died Monday, August 16, at the age of 36, was arguably best known for her leading role on the 2012 drama series Nashville, where she was able to showcase both her acting and musical talents. An investigation into her death is still ongoing after the South Carolina native was found unresponsive in a Greenville apartment complex. First responders arrived to find Panettiere in cardiac arrest following a possible drug overdose.
As fans continue to honor her memory, many can’t help but reminisce on the six seasons she spent on the hit TV show based in Music City, portraying a country music singer/songwriter, Juliette Barnes. Per her role, Panettiere had more than a few opportunities to put her singing skills to good use and even landed 11 tracks on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs Chart.
One of the show’s most unexpected yet unforgettable performances, however, was her joint cover of Patsy Cline’s “Crazy” alongside none other than Rock N’ Roll Hall of Famer Steven Tyler. The moment takes place during the premiere episode of Nashville’s fourth season, with Panettiere (aka Barnes) stunning in front of a screaming crowd with her rendition of the 1961 mega hit.
Then…in comes waltzing from the back of the stage, Aerosmith’s frontman of 56 years, who joins in on the performance, wrapping his arm around Panettiere. Although, why exactly did the 70s lead singer make a brief cameo on the show, you may ask?
Well, in case you forgot (which I surely did), Tyler actually made the “jump” to country music in 2015 and was trying to promote his debut solo country album, We’re All Somebody From Somewhere. In an interview with EW back when the episode aired, Tyler confirmed that while filming, they opted not to pre-record the track and rather just perform it live on set, “Why lip sync when you can sing live? And yes—she is that good!”
He added, “We had to give the audience a performance. My favorite thing about filming is that I can yell, ‘CUT!’ and have a do-over if I want. There are no cuts in rock ‘n’ roll.”
As police continue to investigate her tragic death and the world continues to mourn the sudden loss, her father shared a touching tribute with ABC News following her passing:
It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. 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. We ask for privacy as our family takes time to process this unimaginable loss.
Sending prayers to the Panettiere family and close friends as they navigate this tough time. Check out her stellar performance alongside Tyler, along with some of her other TV-featured hits below: