Her former fiancé and longtime partner, Wladimir Klitschko, marked the occasion with a tribute shared on Instagram. He used the post to thank Panettiere’s fans and friends while honoring the actress and the impact she had on the people around her.
Wladimir Klitschko Remembers Hayden Panettiere on Her Birthday
Klitschko began his message by acknowledging the painful timing. “Today is Hayden’s birthday. Instead of celebrating the way we had planned, today we celebrate her life, her spirit, and the love she brought into this world.”
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The former heavyweight boxing champion then thanked the people who had reached out following Panettiere’s death. “I want to thank all of Hayden’s fans, friends, and everyone who has reached out for the incredible outpouring of love and support,” he wrote. “At a time filled with so much sadness, your kindness has reminded me that there is still so much good in humanity.”
Panettiere and Klitschko began dating in 2009 and eventually became engaged in 2013. They welcomed their daughter in 2014 and remained connected after ending their romantic relationship. In his message, Klitschko asked those mourning Panettiere to turn their attention toward the people around them. “If you’re reading this, I ask just one thing: even if only for a moment, think about LOVE. Reach out to a friend. Forgive someone. Be kind.”
He closed the tribute with a short message that summed up the way he wanted Panettiere to be remembered. “Love is a superpower. Use it.” He then addressed the actress directly: “Happy Birthday, Hayden. You are loved, you are missed, and you will never be forgotten.”
Panettiere died on Aug. 16 at the age of 36, five days before her 37th birthday. She was found unresponsive at an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina, and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said there were no initial signs of foul play, while an autopsy found no signs of trauma.
The actress began working as a child and went on to become best known for roles including Claire Bennet on “Heroes,” Kirby Reed in the “Scream” franchise and Juliette Barnes on “Nashville.” She also voiced characters in the “Kingdom Hearts” games and appeared in projects including “Remember the Titans,” “Ice Princess” and “Until Dawn.”
