Wladimir Klitschko Shares Heartbreaking Message After Ex and ‘Nashville’ Star’s Death

Lucy Nicholson / REUTERS Hayden Panettiere’s ex-fiancé and father of her child has shared a heartbreaking tribute to the actress, who died this week at 36.

The former world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko said the family is in “profound shock and grief” after Panettiere’s sudden death.

Klitschko and Panettiere share an 11-year-old daughter, Kaya.

The Heroes actress was found dead in Greenville, South Carolina, on Sunday, August 16.

The official cause of death has yet to be determined, but Greenville police have said there were no initial signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances.

Klitschko, 50, posted a statement in the wake of his former partner’s death, saying 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.

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,” he wrote.

The Ukrainian boxer said he promises to help his daughter remember Panettiere well.

“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,” he continued.

“Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon.

I ask everyone to please respect our family’s feelings and privacy during this incredibly difficult time.

For now, this is all I wish to say.