HAYDEN PANETTIERE’S MOTHER SPEAKS OUT FOLLOWING ACTRESS’S DEATH

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA — Hayden Panettiere’s estranged mother has publicly spoken for the first time since the actress’s death, directing sharp criticism toward Brian Hickerson, Panettiere’s longtime on-again, off-again boyfriend who was reportedly with her when she died.

Panettiere, known for her roles in Heroes, Nashville and the Scream franchise, was found unresponsive at a South Carolina residence on August 16. She was 36 years old. Authorities have not yet determined an official cause of death, and investigators have stated there are currently no signs of foul play. Toxicology results remain pending.

MOTHER BLAMES BOYFRIEND

In interviews following her daughter’s death, Lesley Vogel said her family had long been concerned about Hickerson’s presence in Hayden’s life.

Vogel stated that Hickerson was with Panettiere when she suffered cardiac arrest and claimed relatives had been trying for years to distance him from her daughter because of their troubled history.

The comments have reignited public discussion about the couple’s relationship, which had previously drawn headlines after Hickerson faced domestic violence charges involving Panettiere. The actress later spoke publicly about abuse, addiction and the challenges she experienced during that period of her life.

WHAT POLICE REPORTS SAY

According to police records obtained by media outlets, Hickerson and his brother Zach were present when emergency responders arrived at the apartment complex.

The report stated that Zach appeared visibly emotional while first responders attempted lifesaving measures. Brian Hickerson reportedly became emotional after Panettiere was pronounced dead. Police also reported that Hickerson directed officers to a bag of medications Panettiere had been taking.

Emergency personnel attempted advanced resuscitation efforts, but Panettiere was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy reportedly found no traumatic injuries that would explain her death.

A LIFE MARKED BY SUCCESS AND STRUGGLES

Panettiere spent much of her life in the public eye, beginning her acting career as a child before becoming a television star and film actress. She was also open about personal struggles involving addiction, postpartum depression, grief and the emotional toll of fame.

Her death came just a few years after the loss of her younger brother, actor Jansen Panettiere, whose death in 2023 deeply affected the family.

QUESTIONS REMAIN

For now, many of the questions surrounding Panettiere’s final hours remain unanswered.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of her death while awaiting toxicology results that could take several weeks to complete.

As speculation continues online, officials have not announced any evidence suggesting criminal activity played a role in her death.

The investigation remains ongoing, and Panettiere’s family continues to mourn the loss of an actress whose life included both extraordinary success and deeply personal struggles.