Hayden Panettiere’s Ex Recognized Her Birthday With the Most Beautiful Tribute

Finally, someone is using Hayden Panettiere's memory for good.

The actor would have turned 37 years old on Friday (Aug. 21) had she not died last weekend. Ex-fiancé Wladimir Klitschko took to social media to ask that her birthday be acknowledged with positivity.

• Hayden Panettiere died on Sunday (Aug. 16) in Greenville, S.C.
• She and Klitschko dated off and on from 2009 to 2018. Together, they had a daughter in 2014.
• Ex-boyfriend Brian Hickerson and his brother Zach Hickerson were with her at the time of her death (per police reports).

The boxer's message is remarkable given the statements issued by others close to her.

"If you’re reading this, I ask just one thing: even if only for a moment, think about love," he writes mid-way through a five-paragraph tribute. "Reach out to a friend. Forgive someone. Be kind."

"Love is a superpower. Use it," he adds.

Reaction to Hayden Panettiere's Death

Panettiere's mother and on-off boyfriend both issued statements that were panned for being far less sensitive. Hickerson's comments were released on Thursday, via his lawyer, to TMZ.

"Hayden's death remains under investigation and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed. As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play," the note reads. "Out of respect for Hayden's loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time."

Her mother Lesley Vogel spoke up two days after her daughter's death, telling NBC News that her daughter had lost her way.

"I think Hayden was an amazingly talented person in so many departments and I think young people who grow up in the entertainment industry — it is a struggle and it’s a very challenging industry and it’s not unusual for them to sadly find the wrong path," she shared.

Klitschko, on the other hand, led with love.

"Today we celebrate her life, her spirit, and the love she brought into this world," he writes before thanking fans for reaching out.

Hayden Panettiere Cause of Death

Hayden Panettiere's cause of death has not been revealed, as it will take several weeks for the toxicology report to be finished. Brian Hickerson gave police a bag of her medications, according to reports. The 36-year-old had a long history of substance abuse.

EMS crews found her in cardiac arrest when they arrived on the scene.