US actress Hayden Panettiere has spoken out about the devastating loss of her brother, Jansen Panettiere, who died in February 2023 at the age of 28.
“He was my only sibling, and it was my job to protect him,” the actress said in Wednesday’s People cover story. “When I lost him, I felt like I lost half of my soul.”
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Hayden Panettiere publicly pays tribute to her brother Jansen.
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The actress, known for roles in Heroes and Nashville, said she would “always be heartbroken” over her brother’s death, but that it has also given her a new perspective on life.
“When something so massive happens to you, you really learn to pick your fights and not let the little things upset you,” she explained.
“Once something so horrific occurs, there’s not much that can really rock you.”
Jansen, an actor and artist in his own right, was found unresponsive in his New York City apartment.
The cause of death was later attributed to an enlarged heart, a condition that often goes undiagnosed and can lead to sudden cardiac events.
His family released a statement describing Jansen as a vibrant soul, noting: “Jansen’s heart could be seen in his eyes, his charm in his brilliant smile, and his joy of life in his dry wit.
“He will live forever in our hearts and in the hearts of all whom he encountered.”
Following Jansen’s funeral, Hayden faced a challenging period, especially after she was photographed outside the service.
This incident reignited her struggles with agoraphobia, a condition she has battled for years.
“I just ballooned out,” she recalled to People of this time. “I didn’t feel confident to get out of the house, but I knew I had to keep moving.”
To combat her feelings of isolation, Hayden sought help from personal trainer Marnie Alton.
“Marnie empowered me,” she said, describing their long walks together as “therapy sessions”.
“My body began to respond — not just from working out, but from releasing the stress and high expectations I’d always placed on myself,” the Heroes actress added.
“There’s nothing like looking in the mirror and feeling good enough to walk out the door.”