The cause of the death of Jansen Panettiere, actress Hayden Panettiere’s brother, has been revealed by his family.
In an exclusive statement to ABC News, Hayden Panettiere along with Jansen Panettiere’s mother, Lesley Vogel, and father Skip Panettiere shared what led to the young actor’s death.
“Though it offers little solace, the Medical Examiner reported Jansen’s sudden passing was due to cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), coupled with aortic valve complications,” they said.
They also reminisced about the actor and spoke about what they will remember about him.
“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,” they stated.
Continuing, his family said, “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.”
They expressed their gratitude to those who have been there for them as they continue to grieve.
“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,” they said. “We love you so much Jansen and you will be in our hearts forever.”
Jansen Panettiere's family, including his sister Hayden, is remembering the late actor a week after he died suddenly at just 28 years old. https://t.co/psAn5J9rCN
— ABC News (@ABC) February 27, 2023
On Feb. 19, Jansen Panettiere was found dead in his apartment. After he failed to show up to a business meeting, one of friends discovered him sitting in a chair, unresponsive, and proceeded to call 911 as they started to perform CPR on him, according to TMZ. He was 28 years old.
Following his passing, a source spoke to Entertainment Tonight (ET) and described Hayden Panettiere as “absolutely heartbroken.”
“She loved her brother unconditionally and the two shared a special bond,” the source added.
Jansen Panettiere was known as a voice actor in the movie “Ice Age: The Meltdown.” In 2019, he also appeared in an episode of the television series “The Walking Dead” which was his last television acting role.