Our hearts are with the Panettiere family! Jansen Panettiere, famously known as the younger brother of the actress Hayden Panettiere, suddenly passed away on February 19.
The Hollywood sensation left us too soon at the tender age of 28, a devasting loss his loved ones felt. A week after his shocking demise, the “Tiger Cruise” actor’s family released a poignant statement. In the lengthy message, the Panettieres expressed their grief alongside the unexpected cause of the entertainer’s death.
Hayden Panettiere’s Younger Brother Jansen Panettiere Died From An ‘Enlarged Heart’
As condolences pour in for the Panettiere family, the mystery behind Jansen’s death has finally been revealed. In a statement shared with ABC News the grief-stricken relatives opened up about the TV personality’s life and death.
“Jansen’s heart could be seen in his eyes, and his charm in his brilliant, engaging smile; his soul in his masterful and revealing paintings, and the joy of life in his dry wit,” his loved ones — mother Lesley Vogel, father Alan Lee “Skip” Panettiere and sister Hayden — gushed in their heartfelt message.
The family continued by noting their love for the “Ice Age: The Meltdown” voice actor and how his best qualities remained embedded in their hearts. “His charisma, warmth, compassion for others and his creative spirit will live forever in our hearts and in the hearts of all whom he encountered,” the deceased’s relatives added.
As for what made Jansen tragically pass away so soon, the family confirmed in their joint statement that the 28-year-old died from an “enlarged heart.” The Panettieres’ words read: “Though it offers little solace, the Medical Examiner reported Jansen’s sudden passing was due to cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), coupled with aortic valve complications.”
The poignant piece concluded, “We sincerely appreciate the outpouring of love and support towards our family as we navigate this unthinkable loss, and ask that we be gifted our privacy during this time of mourning. We love you so much, Jansen, and you will be in our hearts forever.”
Aside from following his sister’s steps in the entertainment industry, the late Palisades native made a name for himself as an artist. Before his death, the 28-year-old showcased his talent on Instagram, filling his page with unique art and sweet moments with his big sister.
A few weeks before his unexpected demise, Jansen shared a touching picture of Hayden trying to cut his hair. Per The Blast, the TV personality was discovered dead in his upper New York City home. Authorities revealed they got a call to go to the late actor’s home around 5:30 PM on Sunday, February 19.
Following his death, tributes began flowing from fans and loved ones. “The X’s” star’s girlfriend, Catherine Michie, kicked off the sorrowful messages with pictures that captured some of the couple’s best moments.
Alongside these intimate images came the emotional caption: “Jansen, I met you only a year ago, but you have been my best friend and biggest fan. I will never forget the first time I saw your face and the first things you said to me.”
The fellow artist noted that her grief was indescribable as she could not be there with her beau during his final moments. Michie concluded her poignant message: “I know we will paint together again someday. I’ll always be your SugarPop. Someone wake me up and tell me this is a dream. Love you, Bubbles.”
Hayden Panettiere Revealed How Addiction Made Her ‘Hit Rock Bottom’
Hayden stole our hearts with her phenomenal performance as Claire Bennet on the superhero series “Heroes.” However, behind this cheerful onscreen character was a woman struggling with alcohol and opioid addiction.
Recalling how this dark past nearly destroyed her life, the “Nashville” star explained in a 2022 interview that she was on top of the world until she ruined it. “I’d think I hit rock bottom, but then there’s that trap door that opens,” the blonde beauty said.
After struggling with addiction for years, the “Bring It On: All or Nothing” actress fought to regain her former self for her daughter, Kaya’s sake. The TV personality shared the little girl with her ex-fiancé Wladimir Klitschko.
Despite battling substance abuse from age 15, Hayden proudly embraced her difficult journey to recovery. “I don’t regret even the ugliest things that have happened to me,” the mother-of-one said. “I feel incredibly accomplished. And I feel like I have a second chance.”
