‘Nashville’ TV Show Character Not Based on Taylor Swift

Hayden Panettiere plays a 20-something country music phenomenon on the upcoming ABC drama, "Nashville." Though she expected the comparisons, she insists her character is absolutely not based on Taylor Swift.

"I've heard the Taylor Swift thing quite a bit and besides being around the same age and blond -- not even the height -- they are different," the actress said at the "Nashville" show panel during the Television Critics Association Press Tour. "When you guys see her and get to know Juliette a little better, you'll see. But I really think Taylor would disagree wholeheartedly, as well. She's much nicer than my character!"

The former "Heroes" star plays Juliette Barnes, a pop country diva with a penchant for skimpy dresses. She immediately clashes with with veteran country star Rayna James, played by Connie Britton.

"We have a real opportunity to show the complexities of these two people in show business, and particularly women," says the former "Friday Night Lights" star. "I feel a really strong responsibility to do that in a way that's true and dignified."

"Nashville" premieres on October 10. Hayden hints at major drama that will also unfold between Juliette and Jonathan Jackson's character, Avery Barkley. "If you have a broken heart, you're sad and you need a rebound, Juliette is prowling somewhere around the corner," laughs the actress.