Neutrogena Issues Statement Following Hayden Panettiere's Death
Neutrogena released an Instagram statement expressing sorrow over Hayden Panettiere's death and announced plans to invest in community health initiatives after criticism over the actress's claims the brand tried to end their partnership over her postpartum-depression disclosure.
Neutrogena posted a statement on Instagram after the death of actress Hayden Panettiere, who had served as a brand ambassador for more than ten years. The company said it was "deeply saddened" by her passing and acknowledged that it had made her feel unsupported during a difficult period, adding that such treatment does not reflect the brand's values.
The statement noted Panettiere's openness about postpartum depression had sparked important conversations and announced a "significant investment" in a long-standing community health partner to expand access to support for women, including postpartum-depression care. Details of the investment will be shared once plans are finalized.
Panettiere alleged in her 2026 memoir and related interviews that Neutrogena attempted to terminate their partnership after she publicly discussed her postpartum-depression, citing a "morals clause" in her contract. She recounted a phone call in which the company reportedly threatened to fire her, which her representative described as illegal.
Following her death, social-media users called for a boycott of Neutrogena. Authorities are investigating the death, with the DEA joining the probe; police have indicated no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances.