Hayden Panettiere’s Ex Wladimir Klitschko Breaks Silence on Her Death

Wladimir Klitschko is fondly reflecting on Hayden Panettiere.

After the Heroes star’s Aug. 16 death at the age of 36, her ex-fiancé—with whom she shared 11-year-old daughter Kaya—spoke out.

“Our family is going through a time of profound shock and grief,” he captioned a photo with Hayden and Kaya on Instagram Aug. 18. “The announcement of Hayden’s tragic death saddens me deeply. She left this world far too soon.”

“Hayden was, although no longer my partner, an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter, Kaya,” Klitschko continued. “She built an incredible career through immense talent, while also facing the darker sides of a very demanding industry. Nothing will erase the times we shared or the place she had in our lives.”

Klitschko went on to make a promise. “To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and make sure she remembers the person she was,” he wrote. “I extend my deepest condolences to Hayden’s parents, her friends, and her fans, who are also grieving today. Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon.”

The 50-year-old concluded his message by asking for privacy during this tragic time.

“Thank you to everyone who is supporting my family and expressing their sincere condolences,” he added. “Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace.”