Hayden Panettiere’s tragic death has shattered those closest to her, as well as the countless people who knew and admired her work. The actress, who contributed to several notable films and television shows during her three-decade career, passed away at just the age of 36. Her death sent shockwaves through Hollywood and also appears to have encouraged some people to speak more openly about the challenges of growing up and working in the entertainment industry from a young age.

Many actors have spoken about their own struggles in an effort to encourage others in the industry to open up about their experiences. Now, another actress, Anna Paquin, has called out Hollywood for its treatment of child actors and extended her support to those who may be struggling.

Anna Paquin called out Hollywood over treatment of child actor

Days after Hayden Panettiere’s passing, Anna Paquin took to social media to share a lengthy message calling out Hollywood for its treatment of child actors, particularly young female actors who are s*********. She pointed out how many of these young actors appear to struggle later in life. Along with her comments, Paquin also extended her support to those who may be struggling, encouraging them to text her and open up about their experiences.

“It’s not a coincidence that so many former, specifically pre-s********* female, child ‘stars’ have profoundly sad lives and untimely ends,” she wrote on Instagram.

“We were not as protected by the ‘systems’ that look great on paper, as we are supposed to be,” she added.

Much like Panettiere, Paquin also started her career at a very young age. She won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Piano at just the age of 11. Having grown up in the spotlight, Paquin is well aware of the challenges young actors can face while adjusting to fame and the demands of working in the entertainment industry.

Paquin also starred alongside Panettiere in Scream 4, although the two did not film any scenes together. She further called for greater care and support for young actors. She also mentioned Michelle Trachtenberg, who passed away at 39 in February 2025, and Daveigh Chase, who died in June.

“RIP HP, MT, DC and too many others,” she wrote.

As for the support for young actors, many actors have come forward and openly talked about it such as Daniel Radcliffe.

Daniel Radcliffe talks about therapy for young actors

Daniel Radcliffe was just 11 when he landed the role of Harry Potter in the Harry Potter film franchise. He went on to star in all eight films and later built a successful career in the entertainment industry, and is well aware of the pressures young actors can face. During an interview with Charlotte Owen, Radcliffe suggested that therapy should be mandatory for child actors. 

“Normalize it, start therapy before you need it,” Daniel said on Bustle’s One Nightstand.

He further explained that he was fortunate to receive plenty of support from the people he worked with and never had any bad experiences. However, his suggestion is a reminder that young actors can struggle with the pressures that come with achieving fame at an early age. Following Hayden Panettiere’s shocking death, Anna Paquin is not the only actress to speak out about the treatment of child stars in Hollywood. Rose McGowan and Christy Carlson Romano have also shared their opinion on the challenges young performers can face.

What do you think about Anna Paquin’s recent comment? Let us know in the comments.