Neutrogena is facing renewed consumer backlash after the death of actor Hayden Panettiere. This eventually brought fresh attention to her past dispute with the skincare brand. Fans revived her claims about the end of their long-running partnership and are calling for a boycott on social media.
Panettiere died on August 16, 2026, at the age of 36. She was found dead at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina. Authorities said the autopsy found no signs of trauma and there was no indication of foul play. The cause and manner of death remain undetermined while investigators await toxicology results.
The dispute arises from Panettiere’s description of her connection with Neutrogena. The actress was associated with the company for more than ten years, being one of the leading ambassadors.
In interviews and in her book published in 2026, Panettiere explained that her connection with the brand was ruined after she made public statements regarding her postpartum depression. The company cancelled her contract on the grounds of morality clauses.
Panettiere’s remarks received renewed attention following her death. Many fans raised questions about whether the beauty industry supports celebrities for speaking about their mental disorders. Kenvue shares reportedly fell about 2% amid the online backlash before partially recovering. Market movements can reflect multiple factors, so claims that Neutrogena’s ‘stock crashed’ because of Panettiere’s death are misleading.
The renewed discussion moved from social media posts to organized calls for consumers to stop buying Neutrogena products. Reddit discussions and other online platforms have featured criticism of the company, with users sharing Panettiere’s earlier comments and urging others to boycott the brand. Neutrogena has not publicly responded to the latest wave of criticism, according to reports.