Wladimir Klitschko speaks out following death of Hayden Panettiere

Wladimir Klitschko has spoken out following the death of his former partner, actress Hayden Panettiere, describing his family as being in 'a time of profound shock and grief.'

Panettiere, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, died at the age of 36 on Sunday, August 16, 2026.

She was found unresponsive at a property in Greenville, South Carolina, after suffering cardiac arrest.

The retired Ukrainian heavyweight boxing champion, who shares nine-year-old daughter Kaya with Panettiere from their previous relationship, posted a lengthy statement to Instagram addressing the loss.

He wrote that the news of her passing had saddened him deeply, adding that she had 'left this world far too soon.'

Despite their relationship ending years ago, Klitschko made clear the actress remained significant to him.

"Hayden was, although no longer my partner, an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter, Kaya," he wrote, before promising to keep her memory alive for their child, vowing he would always speak of her mother 'with respect.'

Klitschko also used his statement to reflect on the actress's career, acknowledging the 'immense talent' she showed throughout her time in the industry while also referencing the pressures that come with life in the public eye. He said nothing could erase the memories the pair shared or the role she had played in his life.

The boxer went on to extend his condolences to Panettiere's parents, friends and fans, writing that 'young and talented people' like her 'should not leave this world so soon.'

He asked for the public to respect his family's privacy during what he described as an incredibly difficult time, before thanking those who had already reached out with support and condolences.

He closed the tribute with the hashtag "#WeLoveYouHayden."

What do we know bout Hayden Hayden Panettiere's death so far?

Emergency responders were called to a home in Greenville on Sunday by an acquaintance who raised the alarm, according to reports from the BBC.

Medics attempted advanced cardiac life support measures at the scene, but resuscitation efforts were ultimately unsuccessful.

An autopsy carried out by the Greenville County Coroner's Office found no signs of trauma linked to her death. Authorities have said there are currently no indications of foul play or suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.

The official cause and manner of death remain unconfirmed while toxicology and further medical examinations are carried out.

This is a breaking news story more on this as we get it.