Hayden Panettiere posts emotional tribute to late brother on what would have been his 29th birthday
Hayden Panettiere has shared a heartbreaking tribute to her young brother Jansen on what would have been his 29th birthday.
It comes nearly eight months after he passed, leaving his family devastated by the sudden loss in February.
Tragically, it was later revealed that the 28-year-old died of complications relating to his heart.
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Marking the sad anniversary, the Heroes star shared a sweet photograph of her and her younger brother as kids.
Taken at Christmas time, they smile as they pose next to the tree, surrounded by the glow of fairy lights and unopened presents in the nostalgic pic.
The Nashville actor then penned a touching Instagram caption, which read: “Happy Birthday little brother. I miss you everyday. I’ll love you forever."
Much like the 34-year-old, Jansen had also appeared in several films and TV shows including The Walking Dead, Even Stevens and Racing Stripes.
The star was found in an unresponsive state at his New York apartment earlier this year.
According to Fox News, close friend Benjamin Brown and an EMT both performed CPR, with the 28-year-old sadly never regaining consciousness.
It was later revealed that he’d suffered from cardiomegaly (an enlarged heart) and complications relating to his aortic valve.
Following his death on February 19, his family shared a statement about his sudden passing with Fox News.
It read: "Jansen’s heart could be seen in his eyes, and his charm in his brilliant, engaging smile; his soul in his masterful and revealing paintings, and the joy of life in his dry wit."
They continued: "His charisma, warmth, compassion for others, and his creative spirit will live forever in our hearts and in the hearts of all whom he encountered."
A month later, Panettiere appeared on Good Morning America to promote her latest film and spoke about her brother’s sudden passing.
In a heartbreaking moment, host Michael Strahan offered his condolences, with the Scream 6 actor becoming emotional over the kind gesture.
Fighting to keep the tears back, she placed her hand on her heart and thanked the anchor man.
Her voice then cracked, as she added: “He's right here with me.”
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
Katherine Sidnell