Hayden Panettiere, best known for her role as "Claire" on the hit TV show "Heroes," will star in the new ABC drama series "Nashville."

The announcement was made earlier this week at the Upfront Presentation 2012-2013 by ABC in New York City, where Panettiere reportedly lives.

Panettiere will play Juliette Barnes, a young and sexy future country music that wants to steal the spotlight from a country legend. Both of her ambitions set up a power struggle for popularity.

The show will feature Connie Britton as Rayna James (the country legend).

The TV show will be broadcast Wednesdays at 10 p.m. starting in fall.

The stunning blonde also made headlines this week after she walked on the red carpet of the Entertainment Weekly and ABC Upfront VIP Party on Tuesday, in a red Moschino mini dress with a devil tale wrapped around the skirt.

Her sexy look turned heads because Panettiere is known for playing mostly teen characters.

The actress is currently dating NFL player Scotty McKnight.

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