As fans continue to mourn the untimely passing of actress Hayden Panettiere, tributes are pouring in from those who knew her best. Among those sharing their grief is Johnathan Jackson, who starred alongside Panettiere as her on-screen husband in the hit ABC/CMT drama Nashville.
Earlier this week, Panettiere’s former fiancé and the father of her daughter, Wladimir Klitschko, expressed his profound shock and sadness following the news of her death. Now, Jackson, 44, has taken to social media to share his own reflections on their time working together.
In a post shared to his Instagram account on Wednesday, August 19, Jackson wrote, “I have no words to express the loss of our loved Hayden. She had such a bright light within her. She was a sensitive soul, incredibly funny and witty. Amazingly gifted, with a great sense of empathy and compassion.”
Both actors were mainstays on Nashville throughout its six-season run. Panettiere frequently spoke of her close friendship with Jackson and his wife, Elisa. Jackson’s tribute included personal photographs of the trio, highlighting the deep bond they shared off-screen. He noted that he and his wife cherished the actress “like our own sister.”
Reflecting on the challenges of growing up in the entertainment industry, Jackson acknowledged the shared struggles he and Panettiere faced during their careers. He concluded his message with a poignant farewell: “We love you Hayden. You will be in our hearts. Always.”