LOS ANGELES — Fiona Hepler Lowe, the 13-year-old daughter of actor Chad Lowe and producer Kim Painter, has died, her family confirmed Tuesday in a statement that described the teenager as “the light of our lives.”
The family’s announcement, shared with People and other outlets, did not disclose a cause of death, but included a direct appeal to anyone struggling with mental health: “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.”
A Family’s Devastating Loss
“We are deeply heartbroken by the loss of our beloved Fiona,” the family said in their statement. “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.”
The statement continued: “Her passing is devastating for our entire family and we ask for prayers and privacy at this time.”
Who Was Fiona Hepler Lowe
Born on November 16, 2012, Fiona was the middle of Chad and Kim’s three daughters. Her older sister, Mabel Painter, is 17; her younger sister, Nixie Barbara, is 10. Her middle name, Hepler, was the maiden name of Chad Lowe’s late mother and is also the middle name of his older brother, actor Rob Lowe.
Chad Lowe, 58, is known for his Emmy-winning role in Life Goes On and for his performances in Pretty Little Liars and Melrose Place. He and Painter, 52, married in 2019.
In November 2025, Chad shared an Instagram post celebrating Fiona’s 13th birthday. “Celebrating Fiona officially becoming a teen today!!” he wrote alongside a photo of her. “Keep dancing through life FiBear! Love you soooo much!!”
A Family Already Reeling from Loss
Fiona’s death comes just over a year after the Lowe-Painter family lost their Pacific Palisades home in the January 2025 wildfires that devastated swaths of Los Angeles County.
In February 2025, Chad posted photos of his three daughters returning to the property where they had grown up. “Almost a month after we evacuated our girls finally got to go back to see what’s left of their home,” he wrote. “The way they’ve handled this whole devastating experience is nothing short of remarkable. I am in awe of their spirit and resilience. Helping them navigate these tough times is my sole purpose. Being their dad is my life’s greatest joy and privilege.”
Tributes and a Message for Others
The family’s decision to include the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in their statement echoes a growing practice among grieving families who hope to turn personal tragedy into a lifeline for others.
On social media, fans and fellow entertainers sent condolences. “My deepest condolences to you and your family,” one commenter wrote on an Instagram post. “There are no words of comfort but just know so many are sending thoughts of comfort and strength to you all.”
Chad Lowe has not released a separate statement beyond the family’s shared message. Rob Lowe, his brother and a longtime fixture in Hollywood, has not publicly commented as of Wednesday.
Fiona is survived by her parents, her two sisters, and an extended family that includes her uncle Rob and cousins. Her family has asked for privacy as they navigate what they described as a devastating time.
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