Notes About The Poem

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TdAICbA-kw&list=RDzp3tYO7mIUE&index=2

 

This poem is dedicated to the late Hayden Panettiere. May she rest in peace. 

Hayden, A Lost Soul

She was a star at a young age, and this was her life
A life that appeared exciting, glamorous but full of strife
A talented actress and singer with a smile to delight
No one really knew her turmoil of being in the limelight

Her voice was another talented gift that surprised many
Her singing as Nashville’s Juliette could have won an Emmy
She was also marine life activist and did more than her part
As She dedicated her time fighting for their rights from her heart

She spoke of experiencing both sexual and domestic abuse
As this led her to experiment with substances and drug use
She seemed to struggle with mental health and depression too
On the outside, she appeared so strong, no one had a clue

Years later she admitted to her struggles and got clean
But her inner demons taunted her and her self-esteem
Neutrogena made her the cover girl of their campaign
Until her post-partum depression then removed with disdain

She had a wonderful daughter, a gift she brought into her life
But had many parenting struggles and was not ready to be a wife
Her career continued to grow and bloom and well as her struggles
She left this earth too young as she succumbed to her troubles

She will always be remembered for, beautiful smile, kind soul and heart
But it’s very sad that at thirty-six her life ended and she had to depart
Copyright © | Year Posted 2026

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Dietrich Avatar
August 27, 2026 at 2:51 PM
Hi, Tania. I probably saw her in Neutrogena add but don't really recall her . I don't follow many Nashville singers but I do love their sound. This is a great tribute to her. Also wanted to say thanks for my contest win. 🌹🕊️
Kitchin Avatar
August 27, 2026 at 4:10 PM
Andrea, thank you and you're welcome.
Empress Avatar
August 23, 2026 at 7:07 AM
She was so beautiful and so young, great loss, was shocking too, You’ve written so well as always dear Tania. For some reason when I read you mention her struggles etc I teared up. Sigh. Its so sad Praying for everyone grieving and her loved ones May her soul rest in peace and love Sending you light always A fave this is for me You have a beautiful heart 💫 🌙
Kitchin Avatar
August 23, 2026 at 11:25 AM
Ink, thank you for your visit, your kind words and the fav.
Smith nee Howarth Avatar
August 21, 2026 at 9:58 PM
This is a compassionate tribute, honoring Hayden’s talent, advocacy, and the private struggles that can exist behind public brightness. Its sadness is heartfelt, and the closing remembrance of her smile and kind spirit gives the poem a gentle sense of tribute.🌹❤️
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace