Former boxer Wladimir Klitschko said his family is “going through a time of profound shock and grief”, following the death of his former partner Hayden Panettiere.
The Heroes and Nashville actress, who died on Sunday at the age of 36, was the mother of their daughter Kaya.
He wrote on Instagram: “Our family is going through a time of profound shock and grief.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“Thank you to everyone who is supporting my family and expressing their sincere condolences.
“Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace. #WeLoveYouHayden.”
The couple dated from 2009 to 2018. Their daughter was born in 2014.
Read MoreConnie Britton ‘has no words’ after death of Nashville co-star Hayden Panettiere
‘No signs of foul play’ relating to Hayden Panettiere’s death, police say
Britain's Princess Eugenie names new daughter Adelaide Elizabeth Annina
.jpeg?width=1200&auto=webp&trim=23%2C0%2C23%2C0)