Hayden Panettiere‘s ex-fiancé Wladimir Klitschko spoke out following the actress’ death at 36. The former couple shared 11-year-old daughter, Kaya Evdokia Klitschko. Klitschko vowed to protect Kaya’s memory of her mother.
Wladimir Klitschko vowed to protect their daughter’s memory of the late star.
Klitschko shared a lengthy statement on Instagram following Panettiere’s death. He included an old photograph showing himself with Panettiere and their daughter. “Our family is going through a time of profound shock and grief,” he wrote.
The former heavyweight champion said Panettiere remained an important part of his life. “She left this world far too soon,” Klitschko said. He also described her as “the mother of our daughter, Kaya.”
Klitschko remembered Panettiere’s career and the challenges she faced. He praised her “immense talent” and acknowledged her demanding industry. He said nothing would erase their shared memories or her place within the family.
He then addressed Kaya directly in his statement. “I will always speak of her mother with respect,” Klitschko wrote. He also promised to make sure Kaya remembered the person Panettiere was.
Panettiere and Klitschko had dated on and off for several years. They became engaged before welcoming Kaya in December 2014. The couple eventually separated permanently in 2018.
Klitschko had primary custody of Kaya during Panettiere’s struggles with substance abuse. Panettiere previously described singing over custody as deeply heartbreaking. She later rejected claims that she had simply abandoned her daughter.
Earlier this year, Panettiere discussed her relationship with Kaya during an interview. She said the custody decision was difficult while seeking treatment. She also expressed concerns about how Kaya would eventually understand her experiences.
Panettiere had also spoken about protecting her daughter while discussing her memoir. She said she never wanted Kaya to blame herself for anything. Her death now leaves Klitschko focused on preserving her memory for their daughter.
Klitschko asked the family’s privacy to be respected during their grief. He said he would not make further public comments about Panettiere’s death for now. “Rest easy, Hayden,” he concluded. “May you find eternal peace.”
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