Hayden Panettiere wasn’t given the time to privately grieve the loss of her younger brother, Jansen Panettiere. After news of his sudden death broke in February 2023, the Scream franchise actress faced constant questioning about her late brother, who was also in the entertainment business. Jansen, who was just 28, died from a health complication.
At the time, the Panettiere family released a statement to TODAY, thanking the public for “the outpouring of love and support towards our family as we navigate this unthinkable loss [sic].”
“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,” the statement read. “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. … We love you so much, Jansen, and you will be in our hearts forever.”
Three years later, Hayden tearfully recalled learning of his younger brother’s passing during an interview with Jay Shetty. She called Jansen her “best friend” and remembered, “screaming, ‘I don’t want to live in a world where he doesn’t exist.’”
Learn more about Jansen, his career, health and more, below.
Like Hayden, Jansen was an actor. He began his film career in the early 2000s, having appeared in television show episodes — including The Walking Dead — and in voiceover roles. Among his most notable film credits include The Forger and The Martial Arts Kid. Before Jansen died, he had worked on several films, including American Game, Horse and Justice Angel, which are expected to be released posthumously.
