Hayden Panettiere recently addressed concerns about her mental health and sobriety in response to backlash from a People magazine interview. She explained that she had not slept for two days prior to the interview due to caring for her dog who underwent surgery. Panettiere denied allegations of being under the influence during the interview and emphasized that her medications are a private matter between her and her doctor. The actress revealed that the interview was cut short when her exhaustion became apparent, and she criticized the toxic nature of social media and click bait news cycles.
Following the release of a video clip from the interview on People’s Instagram, social media users expressed their discomfort and sadness over Panettiere’s appearance. Some called for the removal of the interview, labeling it as exploitation. Despite the backlash, a source confirmed that Panettiere had cooperated with the interview process, and her team was present during the shoot. While some viewers noted slurred speech and glazed eyes in the video, Panettiere’s publicist attributed these to exhaustion and the emotional toll of discussing personal topics, denying any allegations of relapse or substance abuse.
In a previous interview with People in July 2022, Panettiere shared her struggles with alcoholism and opioid addiction, describing them as things she almost couldn’t live without. Despite her past challenges, Panettiere entered an in-patient treatment center in 2020 to work on getting sober. Tragically, the actress lost her brother, Jansen Panettiere, in February 2023 due to an enlarged heart. Hayden expressed her ongoing grief and heartbreak over the loss of her sibling, emphasizing that it is a pain that will never fully heal.
Hayden Panettiere’s Instagram post to address the concerns about her mental health and sobriety highlighted the challenges she faced during the People magazine interview. She thanked supporters for standing by her and acknowledged that she is a work in progress, emphasizing that everyone is constantly growing and evolving. Panettiere’s publicist defended her against accusations of relapse, attributing any concerning behavior during the interview to exhaustion and emotional strain. The actress’s openness about her past struggles with addiction and recent hardships demonstrates her commitment to transparency and recovery.
The backlash over Hayden Panettiere’s People magazine interview sheds light on the impact of social media on public perception and the importance of handling sensitive topics with care. Despite the criticism, Panettiere’s willingness to address the concerns head-on and explain the circumstances surrounding the interview shows her determination to be honest and transparent with her fans. As she continues to navigate her sobriety journey and cope with personal losses, Panettiere’s resilience and vulnerability serve as a reminder of the complexities of mental health and addiction struggles. Ultimately, her message of gratitude for her supporters and commitment to growth and healing resonates with those facing similar challenges.
