Klitschko on Panettiere Death: 'Profound Shock and Grief'

Wladimir Klitschko is publicly mourning Hayden Panettiere, calling her death a "time of profound shock and grief" for their family. In an Instagram tribute posted on Tuesday, the retired Ukrainian boxing champ and former fiance of the actor said he was deeply saddened that Panettiere, 36, died "far too soon," per NBC News. He described her as an "important part" of both his life and that of their daughter, 11-year-old Kaya, and praised Panettiere's "incredible career" and resilience in what he called a "very demanding industry."

Klitschko shared a photo of Kaya on Panettiere's shoulders and pledged to speak of the late actor "with respect" so their daughter will remember "the person she was." He extended condolences to Panettiere's parents, friends, and fans, writing, "Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon." He also asked for privacy for his family.

Authorities in South Carolina's Greenville County say Panettiere died on Sunday after a 911 call reporting a cardiac arrest. An autopsy found no signs of trauma, and police say there's no indication of foul play; the cause of death remains under investigation. Panettiere, known for the TV shows Heroes and Nashville, had been open about past struggles with postpartum depression, addiction, and the painful decision to give Klitschko full custody of Kaya in 2018.