Heart-Wrenching: Hayden Panettiere Opens Up About Brother's Tragic Death

• Hayden Panettiere speaks about her brother's death
• She reveals her heart-wrenching journey to healing
• The actress' brother died in February 2023

Hayden Panettiere has faced the unimaginable. In a raw and touching interview with 'People,' the 'Heroes' and 'Nashville' star opened up about the loss of her brother, Jansen Panettiere, at the age of 28. "I felt like I lost half of my soul," she confessed, marking her first public discussion about the tragedy that struck in February 2023.

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Jansen's sudden passing due to an undiagnosed heart condition left a void in Hayden's life that she admits will "never be filled." The actress described the loss as "horrific" and "catastrophic," underscoring the depth of her grief. Yet, amidst the darkness, Hayden has found a sliver of light, gaining a "newfound perspective" on life's fragility and the importance of cherishing every moment.

The shock of public grief

The aftermath of Jansen's funeral in March 2023 brought unexpected challenges for Hayden, including a battle with agoraphobia triggered by being photographed during such a vulnerable time. "I just ballooned out," she shared, revealing the toll it took on her confidence and well-being. However, Hayden's resilience shone through as she sought help from personal trainer Marnie Alton, who she credits with helping her embark on a healing journey.

Describing their sessions as "long, beautiful walks" that doubled as therapy, Hayden found solace in the physical exertion and emotional support provided by Alton. This holistic approach to wellness helped her break free from the "destructive hamster wheel" of grief and self-doubt, allowing her to embrace life with renewed vigor.

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Finding joy in new beginnings

In a heartwarming turn, Hayden also opened up about her daughter, Kaya (9), sharing glimpses into their life together and Kaya's budding interests in golf and horses. It's clear that, in the face of profound loss, Hayden Panettiere is charting a path forward, grounded in love, healing, and the joy of motherhood.

As Hayden continues to navigate the complexities of grief and recovery, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. In honoring her brother's memory, she's finding ways to heal, grow, and ultimately, find peace.