Hayden Panettiere Talks Brother Jansen's Death Publicly For First Time: "He's Right Here With Me"

Hayden Panettiere is remembering her late brother, Jansen Panettiere. During an appearance on "Good Morning America" on Monday, the 33-year-old "Scream VI" actor spoke out publicly for the first time about her recent loss. "Before we go, we want to just tell you that we're sorry to hear about the passing of your brother, Jansen, and we send our love and condolences to you and your family," host Michael Strahan told Hayden. "He's right here with me," Hayden responded while tearing up.

Jansen, who was also an actor, died suddenly at the age of 28 on Feb. 19. "Jansen's heart could be seen in his eyes, and his charm in his brilliant, engaging smile; his soul in his masterful and revealing paintings, and the joy of life in his dry wit," his family said in a statement to ABC News a week after his death. "His charisma, warmth, compassion for others, and his creative spirit will live forever in our hearts and in the hearts of all whom he encountered."

In their statement, Jansen's family also revealed that he died from an enlarged heart. "Though it offers little solace, the Medical Examiner reported Jansen's sudden passing was due to cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), coupled with aortic valve complications," they told the outlet. "We sincerely appreciate the outpouring of love and support towards our family as we navigate this unthinkable loss, and ask that we be gifted our privacy during this time of mourning. We love you so much Jansen and you will be in our hearts forever."

Jansen is best known for his roles in Nickelodeon's "The Last Day of Summer" and the AMC series "The Walking Dead." He also lent his voice to "Ice Age: The Meltdown" and "The X's."