Hayden Panettiere, the Heroes star was awarded The Gretchen Wyler Award by the Humane Society in LA last Saturday night for her efforts in protesting the slaughtering of dophins & whales in Japan last year.

photos provided by PR Photos

“As an actress, you always dream of getting awards like the Golden Globe award, but I never expected to get an award that is this special and important to me as this,” Hayden said through tears. “There are people who dedicate their entire lives to preserving the environment and defending animals, they are so much more deserving of something like this.”

Hayden succeeds Sir Paul McCartney, last year’s recipient. “She’s an inspiring example to her generation,using her compassion, courage and celebrity to help animals in a very effective way,” said Beverly Kaskey, Senior Director of The Hollywood Office of the Human Society of the United States.

Hayden’s boyfriend, Milo Ventimiglia as well as her parents were in the audience! - People magazine

She’s sweet she’s sweet and she’s sweet! Bravo Hayden!