Actor and director Chad Lowe and producer Kim Painter are mourning the tragic death of their 13-year-old daughter, Fiona Hepler Lowe. The grief-stricken family confirmed the devastating news in a public statement released late Tuesday, September 29. They asked for prayers, support, and privacy as they navigate an unimaginable loss.
Family Pays Tribute to 13-Year-Old Fiona
Fiona was born in November 2012 and was the second of three daughters shared by Chad Lowe, 58, and Kim Painter, 52. In their joint statement provided to media outlets including PEOPLE and Page Six, the parents expressed the depth of their sorrow.
“We are deeply heartbroken by the loss of our beloved Fiona,” the family’s statement read. “She was a loving young girl who was smart, creative, and loved to dance. She was adored by her sisters and she was deeply loved by her parents. In fact, she was the light of our lives. Her passing is devastating for our entire family and we ask for prayers and privacy at this time.”
Fiona is survived by her older sister, 17-year-old Mabel Painter, and her younger sister, 10-year-old Nixie Barbara.
Mental Health Resources Highlighted
In their statement, the Lowe family used their platform to advocate for mental health awareness. They encouraged anyone struggling to seek immediate help and shared critical crisis contact information:
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Free, 24/7 confidential support is also available via the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.
Recent Hardships and Family Resilience
The tragedy follows a series of challenging years for the family. In January 2025, Chad Lowe and his family lost their Los Angeles home in the devastating Palisades fire. A month after the catastrophe, Lowe shared emotional updates regarding his daughters’ resilience while visiting the remnants of their property.
“Helping them navigate these tough times is my sole purpose. Being their dad is my life’s greatest joy and privilege,” Lowe wrote on Instagram in February 2025. He praised the spirit and grace shown by Mabel, Fiona, and Nixie.
Lowe is best known for his Emmy-winning role in the 1989 television series Life Goes On and as the younger brother of actor Rob Lowe. He married Kim Painter in August 2010. Throughout his career and personal life, Lowe frequently shared joyful moments with his daughters on social media. He celebrated Fiona stepping into her teenage years just last November with a loving tribute wishing her to “keep dancing through life.”
