Wladimir Klitschko, the former world heavyweight boxing champion and ex-partner of actress Hayden Panettiere, has spoken publicly following her death, describing the loss as deeply painful for their family.Panettiere, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, died in Greenville, South Carolina, at the age of 36.
Authorities said there were no initial signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances. The exact cause of her death has not yet been confirmed.Klitschko, who shares an 11-year-old daughter, Kaya, with Panettiere, said he was devastated by the news and remembered the actress as an important part of his life.He described Panettiere as a talented woman who built a successful career while also dealing with the pressures and darker sides of the entertainment industry.
Although the couple were no longer together, Klitschko said their daughter would always be reminded of her mother with love and respect.He also appealed to the public to give their family privacy as they deal with the loss.Panettiere and Klitschko first met in Los Angeles when she was 19, and their relationship later led to an engagement. They welcomed Kaya in 2014 but never married.
Panettiere had previously spoken openly about her struggles with postpartum depression, addiction and being separated from her daughter. Despite the difficulties, she maintained that her relationship with Kaya remained strong.
Following news of her death, tributes poured in from colleagues and friends who remembered her talent and personality.Connie Britton, who worked with Panettiere on Nashville, described her as someone who shone brightly and said she was heartbroken by the loss.Masi Oka, her Heroes co-star, also paid tribute, remembering Panettiere for her talent, beautiful spirit and joyful energy.
Actress Beth Chamberlin, who worked with Panettiere on Guiding Light when she was a child, recalled her as an exceptionally gifted young performer who could memorize large amounts of dialogue and consistently deliver strong performances.Panettiere began acting as a child, appearing in movies including Remember the Titans and Raising Helen, before becoming widely known for Heroes and Nashville.
Her career continued into adulthood, with her final major film appearance coming in the thriller Sleepwalker.Her death has left fans, friends and former colleagues mourning a performer whose career began at a very young age and whose personal struggles were also documented publicly.Klitschko ended his tribute by asking for privacy for their family and wishing Panettiere peace.
