Hayden Panettiere Releases Statement Confirming Brother Jansen’s Cause of Death: “His Creative Spirit Will Live Forever”

Actor Jansen Panettiere’s sudden, tragic death on Feb. 19 took the world by surprise. The 28-year-old actor, who was the brother of actress Hayden Panettiere, was known for his roles in The Last Day of Summer and Ice Age: The Meltdown. Police were called to check on Panettiere after friends became concerned that he had missed a meeting, TMZ reported, and his body was found last Sunday. At that time, no cause of death had been given.

Today, Panettiere’s family wrote a lengthy statement thanking the public for their support while also revealing that the actor died from cardiomegaly — or an enlarged heart — in addition to aortic valve complications.

The statement marks Hayden’s first public words about her late brother. The message, which was signed by Panettiere’s mother Lesley Vogel, father Skip Panettiere and Hayden, was published to several news outlets today.

It reads, “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 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 statement continues. “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 statement concludes, “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.”