Hayden Panettiere Shuts Down Marriage Hopes with Ex

Hayden Panettiere has definitively closed the door on any potential marriage to her former partner, Brian Hickerson. When questioned about remarrying Hickerson, the 36-year-old actress stated it was "not going to happen," dismissing the idea with a laugh. This firm stance contrasts with Hickerson's expressed hopes for a future together, though he acknowledged they might "not be good together."

Hickerson, 37, has a history of legal troubles stemming from alleged domestic violence incidents involving Panettiere. He was arrested in 2019 and again in 2020, facing multiple felony charges including domestic violence, battery, assault with a deadly weapon, and dissuading a witness. He pleaded no contest to two felony counts in 2021 and served 33 days in jail.

Panettiere, who was first linked to Hickerson in 2018, discussed the traumatic nature of their past relationship in her memoir, "This Is Me: A Reckoning," released on May 19, 2026. She shared her hope that by openly recounting her experiences, she can empower others to leave abusive situations and not feel alone.