Wladimir Klitschko has penned an emotional message about love on what would have been his ex-fiancée Hayden Panettiere's 37th birthday.
The former heavyweight boxing champion, 50, took to Instagram on August 21 to pay tribute to the late actress after she died on August 16, just five days before she was due to spend her birthday with their daughter, Kaya.
"Today is Hayden's birthday. Instead of celebrating the way we had planned, today we celebrate her life, her spirit, and the love she brought into this world," he began alongside a beautiful photo of Hayden.
"I want to thank all of Hayden's fans, friends, and everyone who has reached out for the incredible outpouring of love and support. At a time filled with so much sadness, your kindness has reminded me that there is still so much good in humanity."
He added: "If you're reading this, I ask just one thing: even if only for a moment, think about LOVE. Reach out to a friend. Forgive someone. Be kind. Love is a superpower. Use it."
Concluding with a message for Hayden, he wrote: "Happy Birthday, Hayden. You are loved, you are missed, and you will never be forgotten."
© InstagramHayden's death announcement
Hayden's death was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday, though the cause has not yet been confirmed.
"It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen," her father, Skip Panettiere.
Hayden's representative also confirmed her death in a statement to HELLO! "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden," it read, adding: "An investigation is ongoing and cause of death has not yet been determined."
© Getty ImagesOn August 16, Hayden was found by police in a Greenville, South Carolina, apartment after they received a call reporting that the actress was "unresponsive" and in "cardiac arrest."
According to the 911 recording, the paramedics tried to resuscitate her, yet ultimately pronounced her dead at 2:32 p.m.
Authorities have confirmed that there were no "signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances."
Wladimir's statement
© Getty ImagesTwo days after her death, Wladimir broke his silence, expressing his "shock and grief" in an emotional statement he shared on social media on August 18.
"Our family is going through a time of profound shock and grief," he said. "The announcement of Hayden's tragic death saddens me deeply.
"She left this world far too soon. Hayden was, although no longer my partner, an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter, Kaya.
© Instagram"She built an incredible career through immense talent, while also facing the darker sides of a very demanding industry. Nothing will erase the times we shared or the place she had in our lives."
He continued: "To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and make sure she remembers the person she was.
"I extend my deepest condolences to Hayden's parents, her friends, and her fans, who are also grieving today. Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon.
© Getty Images"I ask everyone to please respect our family’s feelings and privacy during this incredibly difficult time. For now, this is all I wish to say."
He concluded: "Thank you to everyone who is supporting my family and expressing their sincere condolences. Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace."
