Hayden Panettiere's ex Wladimir Klitschko pays tribute on her 37th birthday: 'You are missed'
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Hayden Panettiere's sudden death on Sunday, August 16, came with a wave of tributes from the Hollywood fraternity. On what would have been her 37th birthday, the 'Scream' actress was honored by her ex-fiance, Wladimir Klitschko.
The former professional boxer promised that Panettiere, with whom he shares an 11-year-old daughter, Kaya Evdokia Klitschko, would “never be forgotten and she will be missed.”
Hayden Panettiere honored by ex Wladimir Klitschko five days after her death
Panettiere's death has come as a shock to everyone, and even days after her passing, tributes continue to pour in. Now, on Friday, Klitschko shared a heartfelt tribute.
“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,” Klitschko captioned a beautiful photo of Panettiere.
“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 continued. “At a time filled with so much sadness, your kindness has reminded me that there is still so much good in humanity.”
The 50-year-old asked those reading the message to think about love, writing, “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 then concluded his post by sharing, “Love is a superpower. Use it. Happy Birthday, Hayden. You are loved, you are missed, and you will never be forgotten.”
Hayden Panettiere leaves behind daughter Kaya and a lasting legacy in Hollywood
The pair began their relationship in 2009 and stayed together until May 2011, according to People,
As per NBC, the pair reconnected and got engaged in 2013 before welcoming their daughter, Kaya, in 2014. However, they officially ended their relationship in 2018. Around the same time, Panettiere struggled with postpartum depression and addiction, eventually leading her to give custody of Kaya to Klitschko.
Panettiere previously shared that being apart from her daughter was deeply painful, but she maintained a close bond with Kaya and spoke with her often.
Speaking about the legacy the actress leaves behind, Panettiere had a long and remarkable career. She was an acclaimed actress and was always a head-turner. She worked in 'Heroes', 'Nashville', 'Scream', and more.
