Hayden Panettiere’s ex fiancé Wladimir Klitschko breaks silence after actress’ death at 36

Hayden Panettiere’s former fiancé Wladimir Klitschko has publicly mourned the actress following her death at the age of 36, remembering her as an important part of his life and the mother of their daughter, Kaya.

Klitschko shared his tribute on Instagram, describing the period as a time of profound shock and grief for his family. His statement came after Panettiere died on August 16 in Greenville, South Carolina. The actress was found unresponsive at a residence, with emergency responders later confirming that she was in cardiac arrest. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The former couple began dating in 2009 and had an on and off relationship for several years. They became engaged and welcomed their daughter Kaya in 2014. Their relationship ended in 2018, with Klitschko becoming the primary custodial parent of their daughter.

In his tribute, Klitschko reflected on Panettiere’s career and the difficulties she faced during her years in the entertainment industry. He praised her talent while acknowledging the darker experiences that accompanied her professional life. He also expressed sympathy for her parents, friends and fans who are grieving her death.

Klitschko specifically addressed their daughter, promising that Kaya would continue to hear her mother spoken about with respect. His message highlighted Panettiere’s role as a mother alongside her public identity as an actress, singer and former child star.

Panettiere became widely known after rising to prominence as Claire Bennet in the television series Heroes. She later earned two Golden Globe nominations for her performance as Juliette Barnes in Nashville. Her film credits included Remember the Titans, Bring It On: All or Nothing, Scream 4 and Scream VI. She also voiced Dot in Pixar’s A Bug’s Life.

Her career was interrupted by a period away from acting, before she returned to the Scream franchise with Scream VI in 2023. Earlier in 2026, she published her memoir This Is Me: A Reckoning, in which she discussed her experiences growing up in Hollywood and her struggles with addiction and postpartum depression.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Panettiere’s death. The Greenville Police Department said there were no initial indications of foul play or suspicious circumstances. An autopsy found no signs of trauma that contributed to her death, while the official cause and manner remain pending further investigation and additional studies.

Reports concerning the emergency call have mentioned cardiac arrest and an apparent overdose, but an overdose has not been officially established as the cause of death. The distinction remains important while the investigation and medical examination continue.

Klitschko’s tribute therefore comes at a time when Panettiere’s family, former colleagues and fans are remembering a performer whose career began during childhood and continued across television, film and music. His words also placed the focus on the private family she leaves behind, particularly her daughter, whose connection to her mother remains central to his remembrance.