FORMER heavyweight boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko has paid tribute to actress Hayden Panettiere following her death at 36, saying she will remain an important part of his life and their daughter Kaya’s.
Klitschko, 50, said his family was dealing with “profound shock and grief” after Panettiere died Sunday in South Carolina.
“She left this world far too soon,” Klitschko said in an Instagram post.
Although he and Panettiere were no longer together, Klitschko said their past relationship and the actress’ role in their family would never be forgotten.
“To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and make sure she remembers the person she was,” he said.
Klitschko’s remarks echoed comments Panettiere made in a July interview, when she said she and the former boxing champion had agreed never to speak negatively about each other in front of their daughter.
The couple became engaged in 2013 and welcomed Kaya in 2014. Panettiere later transferred custody of their daughter to Klitschko in 2018, explaining that she believed Kaya would have a stronger support system while living with her father in Europe.
Klitschko also remembered Panettiere for her work in television and film, noting that she built a successful career despite the challenges that came with being in the public eye.
Panettiere began working as an actress as a child and later gained widespread recognition for her role as Claire Bennet in NBC’s Heroes. She went on to star as Juliette Barnes in the country music drama Nashville from 2012 to 2018.
Her other credits included A Bug’s Life, Remember the Titans, Ice Princess and Bring It On: All or Nothing.
Authorities in South Carolina are investigating Panettiere’s death. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office said first responders found her in cardiac arrest and attempted to resuscitate her before she was pronounced dead at 2:32pm.
A preliminary autopsy found no signs of trauma that contributed to her death. Her cause and manner of death remain pending as the investigation continues.
Klitschko asked for privacy for Panettiere’s family, friends and loved ones as they mourn her death.
“Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon,” he said. “Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace.” (Adrian Co)
