Lesley Vogel, mother of the late actress Hayden Panettiere, has released a new statement addressing her daughter's death, attributing it to the influence of a "toxic" individual. This statement follows initial comments that reportedly sparked backlash.
Vogel, 70, told Entertainment Tonight on Thursday that although she and her daughter were estranged, it was "not for lack of care or love," but rather due to the involvement of a person she believes was responsible for Panettiere's death. While Vogel did not identify the individual by name, her previous remarks had targeted Brian Hickerson, Panettiere's on-again, off-again boyfriend, who was present at the time of the actress's apparent overdose.
"Hayden was a beautiful and talented young woman who unfortunately became involved with the wrong person, and although her family tried to extricate him from her life, we were unable to be successful," Vogel stated in her recent comments. She expressed hope that people would remember Hayden for her positive qualities and contributions.
Hickerson's attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Page Six.
Lesley Vogel initially commented on her daughter's passing by describing Panettiere as "talented" but "on the wrong path."
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