Ukrainian former heavyweight boxing world champion Wladimir Klitschko expressed deep shock and sorrow over the tragic death of his former partner, American actress Hayden Panettiere.
In an emotional Instagram post, Klitschko shared a selfie with Panettiere and their daughter Kaya, dedicating a touching tribute to the late actress.
Wladimir Klitschko’s Statement
“Our family is going through a period of deep shock and grief,” Klitschko wrote. “The news of Hayden’s tragic death has deeply saddened me. She left this world far too soon. Hayden, although she hadn’t been my partner for a long time, remained an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter Kaya.”
He added that the actress possessed immense talent and built an incredible career while facing the “dark side of an extremely demanding industry.” Klitschko emphasized: “Nothing can ever erase the time we spent together and the place she held in our lives.”
Separately, Klitschko addressed their daughter, promising to cherish her mother’s memory:
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“To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and do everything to ensure she remembers the kind of person Hayden was.”
In conclusion, he expressed condolences to the family, friends, and fans of the actress, and asked for privacy for their family.
Relationship History and Struggles
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Romance and Family: The couple began dating in 2009, got engaged in 2013, and welcomed their daughter Kaya in 2014. Panettiere was often seen supporting the boxer ringside. They separated in 2018.
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Custody: Following their split, Panettiere granted Klitschko full custody of their daughter amidst her struggles with addiction and mental health issues.
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Memoir: Earlier this year, the actress released her memoir “This Is Me: A Reckoning”, where she candidly discussed depression, anxiety, alcoholism, substance abuse struggles, as well as coping with the death of her younger brother Jansen Panettiere in February 2023 and her decision to grant full custody of her daughter.
Reactions from Colleagues
The sad news prompted an outpouring of tributes from the entertainment industry:
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Melissa Barrera (“Scream VI”): “Rest in peace, sweet Hayden.”
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Selma Blair: “I love you. Don’t go away. Please. Please.”
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Beverly Mitchell (“7th Heaven”): “Praying this news is wrong! You are such a bright light, and you are so deeply loved.”
Circumstances of Passing
Hayden Panettiere, best known for her roles as Claire Bennet in the hit superhero series “Heroes” and country singer Juliette Barnes in the musical drama “Nashville”, passed away on August 16 in South Carolina, just days before her 37th birthday.
The actress was found unresponsive in cardiac arrest. First responders attempted to resuscitate her, but she could not be saved. According to authorities, there were no signs of trauma or foul play, and the official cause and circumstances of death are still under investigation.
