Alexa PenaVega expressed deep sorrow following the deaths of three fellow child actors who rose to prominence alongside her during the 2000s. In a social media statement, the “Spy Kids” star acknowledged the losses of Hayden Panettiere, Michelle Trachtenberg, and Daveigh Chase, all of whom passed away in 2026 between February and August at ages in their mid-to-late 30s.
PenaVega reflected on their shared experience growing up in Hollywood, describing the industry as “exciting and also incredibly hard” for young performers. She emphasized that the three actresses were not simply names from her past, but girls she knew personally throughout their formative years navigating the challenges of early fame without adequate support systems.
The statement concluded with a call for compassion, urging people to cherish their loved ones. PenaVega also extended her thoughts to those struggling silently with personal battles. Panettiere died in South Carolina at 36, with authorities finding no signs of foul play. Chase passed away in Los Angeles at 35 from AIDS-related complications, while Trachtenberg died in February at 39 from diabetes-related complications.
Originally reported by Variety →
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