Director's Tribute
Tim Fywell, the director of the Disney film Ice Princess, mourns the loss of Hayden Panettiere, who died at 36 on Sunday. He fondly remembers Panettiere as a courageous, lively, and committed young talent who brought joy to both the film set and audiences with her exceptional abilities. Fywell also paid tribute to Michelle Trachtenberg, who passed away last February at 39, calling them a remarkable duo.[S1][S2]
Fywell noted their very different personalities: Trachtenberg was quirky and fun with an infectious laugh and brilliant comic timing, while Panettiere was plucky, determined, and perfectionist, spending hours practicing skating and focusing on truthful acting. He said they were delightful to work with during a challenging shoot, his first Hollywood movie, and he remembers them with great affection as two shining talents gone too soon.[S1][S2]
Film's Legacy and Fan Reaction
After Hayden Panettiere's passing, the movie Ice Princess became a social media trend as fans mourned the loss of both young actresses. The story centers on Casey Carlyle, played by Michelle Trachtenberg, a teen who chooses to pursue figure skating instead of a Harvard scholarship. She befriends skater Gen, portrayed by Panettiere, who assists her with computer-generated algorithms to enhance her skills. The film also features Joan Cusack and Kim Cattrall as the mothers of the main characters.[S1][S3]
Video compilations of the characters Casey and Gen circulated online, with fans noting the film's nostalgic comfort amid the tragic losses. Fywell's tribute joins others, including from Spy Kids star Alexa PenaVega, who expressed a heavy heart over the passing of fellow child stars, mentioning Panettiere, Trachtenberg, and Daveigh Chase, who died in June at 35.[S1][S2]
Other Tributes
Actress Viola Davis, who worked with Panettiere on The Architect and Custody, praised her talent and called her an old, wise soul with a deep heart. She sent healing prayers to Panettiere's family and daughter. Bethany Joy Lenz, Panettiere's co-star on Guiding Light, also shared an emotional tribute, recalling her as a wild little blonde with astonishing intelligence and understanding of scenes and human struggle.[S3]
