Actress Hayden Panettiere took to Instagram on Sunday to address concerns arising from a recent interview with People magazine. Fans expressed worry about her mental health and sobriety after the published video seemed to show her struggling during the emotional conversation about her late brother.
Panettiere expressed feeling compelled to clarify her experience, stating that she was sleep-deprived from her dog’s emergency surgery prior to the interview. She also addressed rumors of intoxication, emphasizing that only she and her doctor know her medical situation. The actress further mentioned feeling “exhausted” after the eight-hour session, and that her representative had to end the interview early due to her fatigue.
She concluded her post by thanking her supportive fans and acknowledging the ongoing challenges of her personal journey. Panettiere also criticized the “toxicity of social media” and the “clickbait-driven news cycle.”
The interview sparked a heated online debate, with many fans criticizing People magazine for publishing the footage. However, an exclusive source informed Page Six that Panettiere “fully cooperated” with the crew throughout the interview, and her team was present on set. Panettiere’s representative attributed her appearance to exhaustion and the emotional weight of discussing her brother’s passing for the first time. They explicitly denied any substance abuse relapse.
This incident underscores the complexities of navigating public scrutiny in the digital age, particularly when discussing deeply personal matters. It highlights the potential pitfalls of social media and the sensationalization of celebrity news.
While fans are understandably concerned about Panettiere’s well-being, it’s essential to remember that her journey is her own, and respect her privacy and strength as she continues to heal.