Hayden Panettiere recently opened up about the difficult decision to hand over custody of her daughter, Kaya, to ex-fiancé Wladimir Klitschko in 2018.
Speaking on the On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast, the actress explained that the move was not abandonment but an act of survival during a period when she was struggling with addiction, postpartum depression, and anxiety.
She admitted that the idea of people believing she simply “gave away” her child was heartbreaking, but emphasized that she was spiraling privately while trying to maintain a public image.
Panettiere recalled reaching a breaking point, telling herself she desperately needed help even though she knew it might look terrible from the outside.
She clarified that she was not forced into treatment but actively sought it out, recognizing she could not continue living the way she was.
Despite Kaya living overseas with Klitschko, Hayden said they remain close, often FaceTiming and having meaningful conversations, which reassures her that their bond has endured despite the distance.
The actress stressed that Kaya does not feel abandoned, as she knows she has two parents committed to her happiness and wellbeing.
Panettiere has previously described signing over custody as the most heartbreaking experience of her life, calling it a “living nightmare.”
While the decision continues to leave emotional scars, Hayden believes her relationship with Kaya has survived the challenges, proving that love and connection can withstand even the most painful circumstances.