Neutrogena has issued a statement addressing controversy surrounding its past partnership with the late actress Hayden Panettiere, following her death on Sunday at age 36. The company acknowledged that its decision not to renew Panettiere's contract as a global brand ambassador after she spoke about her struggles with postpartum depression over a decade ago may have made her feel unsupported.
"We are deeply saddened by Hayden Panettiere's passing," Neutrogena stated in a message shared on Instagram. "For more than a decade, Hayden was a valued member of our Neutrogena community. We are proud to have partnered with her and understand that we made her feel unsupported during a very difficult time."
The company further stated, "This is not what Neutrogena stands for or who we want to be."
Panettiere detailed her decade-long association with the brand in her memoir, "This Is Me: A Reckoning," which was released in May. She also discussed the business relationship in interviews around the time of her partnership.
Panettiere, known for her roles in "Heroes" and "Nashville," died on Sunday. Her death was announced by her family, who did not immediately disclose the cause. She had been open about her struggles with postpartum depression and addiction, often speaking about her journey toward recovery.