Hayden Panettiere's Ex Speaks Out After Her Death

Brian Hickerson, the on-off boyfriend of the late Hayden Panettiere, has made brief public comments approximately one month after the actress's death. Hickerson was approached by a photographer in Greenville, South Carolina, responding tersely when asked about his well-being.

Panettiere, 36, died in a Greenville residence on August 16. Police reports indicated no immediate signs of trauma, but the cause of death is still under investigation by the Greenville County Coroner's Office, with toxicology results pending. Speculation suggests the actress may have ingested a fentanyl-laced oxycodone pill, though her spokesperson stated that recent reports are unverified and urged patience.

Panettiere had written about her relationship with Hickerson in her memoir, released less than three months prior to her death. The couple had a history of domestic disputes, including an incident in Wyoming in 2020 for which Hickerson received a jail sentence and probation in 2021.

Hickerson's lawyer previously stated that police found no signs of foul play and that no further comment would be made out of respect for Panettiere's loved ones and the ongoing investigation. Both Brian and his brother Zach were present at the scene of Panettiere's death. Zach was recently arrested for disorderly conduct following an alleged altercation at a bar, reportedly triggered by patrons heckling him and Brian about Hayden's death.