Hayden Panettiere former partner Wladimir Klitschko leads tributes

By Byron Lukas

Panettiere, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, died on Sunday at the age of 36. She was found unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina.

Authorities have said there were no signs of trauma, while the official cause and manner of death remain under investigation.

Klitschko, 50, shared a statement on Instagram, remembering Panettiere as an important part of his life and the mother of their 11-year-old daughter, Kaya.

“Our family is going through a time of profound shock and grief.”

“The announcement of Hayden’s tragic death saddens me deeply. She left this world far too soon. Hayden was, although no longer my partner, an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter, Kaya.”

The former heavyweight champion also reflected on Panettiere’s career and the challenges she faced while growing up in the entertainment industry.

“She built an incredible career through immense talent, while also facing the darker sides of a very demanding industry. Nothing will erase the times we shared or the place she had in our lives.”

Klitschko said he would ensure their daughter remembers her mother with respect.

“To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and make sure she remembers the person she was.”

Panettiere and Klitschko began their relationship in 2009 and welcomed Kaya in 2014. Klitschko later became her primary custodian, while Panettiere continued to maintain a relationship with their daughter.

Klitschko ended his statement by extending his condolences to Panettiere’s family, friends and fans, while asking for privacy as they mourn.

“Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon.”

“Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace.”