Wladimir Klitschko, former fiancé of the late actress Hayden Panettiere, has broken his silence following her sudden death at the age of 36. Klitschko, a Ukrainian boxer, shared a heartfelt statement expressing profound shock and grief over the loss of Panettiere, who was the mother of their 11-year-old daughter, Kaya.
In a statement released on social media, Klitschko described Panettiere as an “important part of my life” and the mother of their child. He conveyed that their family is experiencing a time of “profound shock and grief” and that her announcement of tragic death saddens him deeply, adding that she “left this world far too soon.” Klitschko assured that he would always speak of Panettiere with respect to their daughter Kaya and ensure she remembers the person her mother was. He extended his deepest condolences to Panettiere’s parents, friends, and fans, emphasizing that young and talented individuals like her should not depart this world so soon. He concluded by requesting privacy for the family during this incredibly difficult time.
Panettiere, known for her roles in the television series “Heroes” and “Nashville,” as well as the “Scream” film franchise, was found unresponsive in Greenville, South Carolina, on Sunday, August 16. Official reports from the Greenville Police Department indicated that medical assistance was administered at the scene, but Panettiere was pronounced deceased. Preliminary investigations have not suggested any signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances surrounding her death, though an investigation is ongoing. Her publicist confirmed that an acquaintance of Panettiere placed the 911 call.
The actress’s father, Skip Panettiere, also released a statement calling his daughter an “incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen.” He described her passing as an “unimaginable loss” and requested privacy for the family as they process their grief.
Panettiere and Klitschko began dating in 2009 and became engaged in 2013. They welcomed their daughter, Kaya Evdokia Klitschko, in December 2014. The couple eventually separated in 2018, with Klitschko being granted full custody of their daughter amidst Panettiere’s public struggles with substance addiction. Despite their romantic separation, Panettiere had stated earlier this year that she and Klitschko remained close, sharing a deep friendship and a strong bond through their daughter.
Throughout her career, Panettiere transitioned from a child actor in films like “Remember the Titans” to prominent television roles that garnered critical acclaim. She also openly discussed her struggles with mental health, addiction, and postpartum depression, particularly in her 2022 memoir, “This is Me: A Reckoning.” Colleagues and friends, including “Nashville” co-star Connie Britton and actress Kim Cattrall, have shared tributes remembering Panettiere’s talent and spirit.
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