Justin Chatwin Reflects on Hayden Panettiere’s Struggles Before Her Passing

Justin Chatwin, a costar of Hayden Panettiere, has shared insights into the actress’s challenges during their collaboration on the film Sleepwalker. Their work together took place in early 2025, and the film is set to release in January 2026, shortly before Panettiere’s untimely death at the age of 36.

In an interview with People published on August 17, Chatwin remarked on how different Panettiere appeared compared to their earlier encounters. He stated, “Hayden seemed different when I met her this time than when I met her in the early years.” Drawing from his own experience with addiction—having been sober for 15 years—Chatwin expressed awareness of the toll that Hollywood can take on individuals, particularly the youth.

Chatwin noted his perception of Panettiere’s struggles, saying, “I could tell she was struggling, and I was like, ‘I don’t think it’s this movie.’” He described his admiration for her, highlighting that he enjoyed working with her, but recognized her feelings of loneliness during their time together. He also pointed out the film’s heavy themes centered around domestic violence, which he believed resonated with Panettiere’s personal history.