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Panettiere's Pain: The Hidden Battle
24 Aug
Summary
- Actress experienced mysterious leg pain described as 'pins and needles'.
- Her memoir detailed past violence and multiple arrests involving ex-boyfriend.
- Concerns raised about child actor protections following her death.
Hayden Panettiere experienced a year ago severe leg pain, described as 'pins and needles,' which significantly hindered her physical capabilities. This pain caused her considerable distress and fear, prompting visits to medical professionals and an acupuncturist in an attempt to find relief.
Her memoir, released in May, shed light on past experiences of violence at the hands of ex-boyfriend Brian Hickerson, which led to three arrests and his incarceration. During a May book tour, Panettiere's security was instructed to prevent Hickerson from attending, indicating ongoing tension.
Panettiere's death on August 16 in Greenville, South Carolina, where no foul play was initially suspected, has prompted broader discussions. Actress Melissa Gilbert pointed to the deaths of Panettiere, Michelle Trachtenberg, and Daveigh Chase as evidence for the need for enhanced child actor protections.
Panettiere had previously been open about her struggles with depression and addiction, including the use of 'happy pills' at 15 and later reliance on opioids and alcohol, which she found difficult to live without off-set.
