US actor and director Chad Lowe and his wife, Kim Painter, have shared their heartbreak following the death of their 13-year-old daughter, Fiona Hepler Lowe.
Fiona, who was born on 16 November 2012, was the middle child of the couple. In a statement issued on 29 September 2026, the family described her as “the light of our lives” and a girl who “loved to dance”.
Emergency services were called to the family’s home in Los Angeles at approximately 12:10 a.m. on Tuesday morning. While the specific cause of death has not yet been released by the Los Angeles Medical Examiner, the family chose to include a specific plea regarding mental health awareness within their announcement.
The Lowe family urged anyone struggling with their mental health to seek support, highlighting the importance of reaching out to professional services. They referenced the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the United States as a vital resource for those in need.
Chad Lowe is a well-known figure in the American television industry, having won an Emmy Award for his role in the drama Life Goes On. He is also recognised by international audiences for his work on Pretty Little Liars and 24, as well as his extensive work as a director. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Lowe and Painter, a producer, are also parents to two other daughters: Mabel, 17, and Nixie, 10.
Support for readers in the UK
While the family’s statement highlighted American crisis services, there are several organisations available to provide support and advice for readers in the UK who may be affected by these issues or are concerned about a young person’s mental health.
Those seeking help can contact the following services:
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 for free, 24 hours a day, or email jo@samaritans.org.
- NHS 111: Dial 111 for non-emergency medical advice, including mental health support.
- Childline: Young people can call 0800 1111 for free, confidential support.
- PAPYRUS: Prevention of Young Suicide provides a HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141.
The family has requested privacy as they navigate the loss of Fiona. Tributes from the entertainment industry have begun to appear online, with colleagues and fans offering condolences to the Lowe family during this time.
