Hayden Panettiere Speaks Out on Brother's Death: 'I Lost Half My Soul'

Hayden Panettiere Reflects on Brother Jansen's Death: 'I Lost Half My Soul'

Hayden Panettiere recently opened up about the devastating loss of her younger brother, Jansen Panettiere, who passed away last year at 28 due to an undiagnosed heart condition. In an interview with People, she expressed profound grief, saying, “He was my only sibling, and it was my job to protect him. When I lost him, I felt like I lost half of my soul.”

Jansen's death occurred during a pivotal moment in Hayden’s life, as she was navigating a career comeback and recovering from substance abuse. She described the difficult emotions she faced, including agoraphobia, and the impact of negative media attention surrounding her brother’s funeral.

Despite these challenges, she found strength through long walks with her personal trainer, Marnie Alton, which helped her regain confidence and perspective. “When something that massive happens, you learn to pick your fights and not let the little things upset you,” she said.

Hayden emphasized that while she is learning to cope, she will never fully recover from the loss. “I will always be heartbroken about it,” she shared. Jansen’s family revealed that his death was attributed to cardiomegaly and aortic valve complications, a sudden tragedy that has left a lasting mark on those who loved him.