Former heavyweight boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko said he is in deep shock following the sudden death of his former fiancee, American actress Hayden Panettiere.
Panettiere, 36, was found dead on Sunday afternoon in an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina, with her father confirming her passing on Monday, August 17.
Emergency services received a 911 call at 1:51 p.m. reporting an unresponsive woman at the scene. Audio recordings from the emergency response stated that the actress suffered cardiac arrest, with responders also referencing a suspected drug overdose.
Klitschko pays tribute to former partner
Writing on social media one day after her death was made public, Klitschko shared a photograph of himself with Panettiere carrying their daughter, Kaya, on her shoulders.
In a statement posted on Facebook, Klitschko said his family was experiencing a period of profound shock and grief. He expressed deep sadness over the tragic news and remarked that Panettiere had left this world far too early.
Although they were no longer together, Klitschko noted that Panettiere remained an important part of his life and was the mother of their child. He praised her acting career, saying her immense talent built a great profession while acknowledging that she faced the darkest sides of a demanding industry.
Custody of daughter and relationship history
Klitschko, who has assumed custody of Kaya, pledged that he would always speak to their daughter with respect about her mother. He said he would take steps to ensure that Kaya remembers the person Panettiere was.
The couple began dating in 2009 and became engaged four years later in 2013. Their daughter was born in December of that same year. Their relationship ended five years later in 2018, before they were able to marry.
Family appeal for privacy
Concluding his public message, Klitschko extended his deepest condolences to Panettiere's parents, friends, and fans who are mourning her loss. He noted that young and talented people should not die so early in life.
Klitschko requested that the public and news media respect the feelings and privacy of his family during this difficult time, stating that he had no further comments to make for the time being.
