'I lost half of my soul': How Hayden Panettiere carried the grief after brother's death in 2023
Long before news broke of Hayden Panettiere' s own death at 36, the actress had already lived through a loss she described as unbearable: the death of her younger brother, Jansen Panettiere, in February 2023. He was 28. Like his sister, Jansen had built a career as a child actor. His death was caused by aortic valve complications tied to an undiagnosed enlarged heart, a sudden loss that Hayden…
Hayden Panettiere, the actress known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, has spoken openly about the profound grief she endured following the sudden death of her younger brother, Jansen Panettiere, in February 2023. The loss of her 28-year-old brother, who had also pursued a career as a child actor, left a lasting void that Hayden referred to as the loss of "half of my soul."
Jansen's death was attributed to aortic valve complications resulting from an undiagnosed enlarged heart. In a 2024 interview, Hayden revealed that the trauma of losing her brother had a profound impact on her, leading her to gain 40 pounds due to the stress and subsequent release of cortisol in her body. She explained that her body was trying to shield itself from the world following such a catastrophic event.
The actor has publicly memorialized her brother on several occasions, reflecting on his remarkable character and the enduring love she holds for him. Despite the pain of his absence, Hayden expressed hope for reunion in the afterlife, stating that she will see Jansen again one day.
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