AceShowbiz - Hayden Panettiere has recently found herself at the center of public scrutiny following an interview with People magazine, which raised alarm among fans due to her apparent slurred speech and emotional demeanor. The "Heroes" actress, 35, took to Instagram to clear the air and address the concerns head-on.

"I would like to take a moment to address the controversy surrounding an interview I recently completed with People magazine," Panettiere began her statement. She explained that she hadn't slept for two days prior to the shoot because of caring for her dog who had just undergone emergency surgery. The interview itself was the culmination of an exhausting eight-hour shoot.

The actress acknowledged that she appeared worn out during the interview, particularly as the discussion ventured into heavier, personal topics. "My rep stopped the interview early as it became obvious that I was fading - especially as the subject matter became heavier," she wrote, revealing that viewers only saw an edited version of the conversation.

Fans and celebrities alike were quick to demand the video be taken down, calling it "uncomfortable and sad to watch." Former "Dancing With the Stars" contestant Peta Murgatroyd even commented, "This interview should be removed asap!!"

Despite the criticism, a source told Page Six that Panettiere "fully cooperated" during the interview and that her team was present throughout the shoot. Panettiere's publicist confirmed that she was not under the influence and attributed her demeanor to "speaking about her brother for the first time," coupled with exhaustion.

In February 2023, Panettiere's brother Jansen died of an undiagnosed heart condition at the age of 28. In her interview, she reflected on the enduring pain of this loss, saying, "I will always be heartbroken about it. I will never be able to get over it."

Panettiere has a history of mental health and substance abuse struggles, having publicly discussed her battles with postpartum depression, alcohol, and opioid addiction. She first entered rehab in 2015 and completed another stint in 2020. She noted, "Grief looks different on everyone. Whether or not I am on medication is none of anyone's business and is between me and my doctor."

Concluding her Instagram message, Panettiere highlighted the problem of social media toxicity and news outlets driven by clickbait. She called on people to be mindful of the detrimental impact their online comments can have.

"Mental health is so important," she emphasized, adding, "For those of you who have come to my defense amidst this chaos I am so grateful. Like I've said before, I am a work in progress. We all are."

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues, please contact the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or reach out to 988 for crisis support.