Hayden Panettiere lost her brother, Jansen, to complications from a heart defect in February 2024. The pair were close, and his sudden death was extremely hard on Hayden. She recently spoke with People about how her body reacted to the grief of losing Jansen with sudden weight gain. She also spoke of her road to recovery and taking time to heal.
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People shared a video of the interview that caused concern for many of Hayden’s fans. Some speculated the star may have relapsed on drugs, but took to Instagram to clear the air.
Hayden Panettiere Clapped Back Trolls After Her Interview Went Viral
Hayden Panettiere shared a photo of herself looking well alongside a lengthy caption giving her side of the story.
She addressed the controversy head-on, writing, “It’s unfathomable that I’m even in this position, but I feel forced to address it in a space where I won’t be criticized for how fast or slow I speak,” she wrote.
Hayden explained that she was dealing with a crisis with one of her dogs and working on very little sleep. She asked if they could finish the interview later, but the interviewer reportedly told her not to worry.
“She assured us that it wasn’t necessary and that she felt it was an emotional and heartfelt interview. We were also told they would edit it and that it would be a beautiful piece. The magazine does not grant approval for images or video interviews before they run. We see the interview when it goes live,” she said.
Hayden reassured her fans she was OK but cautioned them to allow her to grieve in a way that works for her.
“Grief looks different on everyone. Whether or not I am on medication is none of anyone’s business and is between me and my doctor. I am doing interviews to promote my new film because I am proud of it. The real issue here is the toxicity of social media and a news cycle that is driven by clickbait. Mental health is so important, and I hope those reading this now understand that what you say hiding behind a computer screen can have a detrimental impact on someone. For those of you who have come to my defense amidst this chaos, I am so grateful. Like I’ve said before, I am a work in progress. We all are,” she wrote.
Fans Shared Their Support With Hayden
The comment section shared love for Hayden.
“We were concerned because we care about you and didn’t want you to be exploited while you’re grieving. Glad you’re OK,” someone wrote.
Many agreed, “Very important statement beautifully said! Cannot wait to support your new film we love you!!”
Hopefully, Hayden will find peace, and the world will allow her to grieve as she needs to.
This story’s featured image is by Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images.
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