Wladimir Klitschko has paid an emotional tribute to his late ex-fiancé Hayden Panettiere on what would have been her 37th birthday, days after her sudden death at 36.
Taking to Instagram on Friday, Klitschko shared a photo of the Heroes star, who died aged 36 on Sunday from a suspected overdose.”
In the caption, he wrote, “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 added, “I want to thank all of Hayden’s fans, friends, and everyone who has reached out for the incredible outpouring of love and support. At a time filled with so much sadness, your kindness has reminded me that there is still so much good in humanity.”
The boxer noted, “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.”
Klitschko mentioned, “Love is a superpower. Use it. Happy Birthday, Hayden. You are loved, you are missed, and you will never be forgotten.”
Panettiere and Klitschko shared daughter Kaya, whose custody he took in 2018 before moving her to Ukraine.
Hayden Panettiere death
A post-mortem found no signs of trauma, while her official cause of death remains unconfirmed.
Police said ex Brian Hickerson and his brother Zach were in the apartment when she died.
Narcan was found on a mattress at Panettiere’s South Carolina home.
It is used to reverse opioid overdoses, though it remains unclear whether it was administered.
911 audio indicated she suffered cardiac arrest following a suspected overdose.
Hayden and Wladimir met at a book launch in 2009, dating for two years before splitting in 2011.
They later rekindled their romance in 2013.
