Brian Hickerson, the on-again, off-again boyfriend of the late Hayden Panettiere, was reportedly scrutinized in court for alleged drug use just three days before the actress died at age 36. Panettiere was found unresponsive at an apartment in South Carolina on Sunday, August 16, and was later pronounced dead following a suspected overdose.
Hickerson's brother, Zach, stated that he administered Narcan to Panettiere after they discovered her unconscious. The actress was later declared dead by emergency responders. A post-mortem examination has been completed, with authorities reporting no signs of trauma on her body. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of death.
Days prior to Panettiere's passing, a court hearing was held on August 13. Hickerson had filed a request on July 20 to expunge domestic violence convictions from his record. According to reports, prosecutors opposed this petition, pointing to continuous alleged drug use and two separate arrests in Los Angeles in 2025. Hickerson did not appear at the August 13 hearing, nor did his attorney.
In 2021, Hickerson pleaded no contest to two felony counts of injuring Panettiere and was sentenced to 45 days in jail, four years of probation, and mandatory domestic violence classes. He was arrested at a West Hollywood bar in August 2025, though he was not prosecuted due to insufficient evidence. Later that same month, he was arrested again and charged with a misdemeanor count of being under the influence of a controlled substance. This charge was dismissed earlier this year in January after Hickerson submitted proof of completing 10 Narcotics Anonymous sessions.
During the August 13 hearing, prosecutors also referenced a May interview where Hickerson appeared to be under the influence of a stimulant, contradicting his lawyer's claims that he was sober and seeking expungement. A judge ultimately denied Hickerson's petition to clear his record.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office had previously opposed a similar petition filed by Hickerson in July 2025, citing his continued drug use and the subsequent arrest. Hickerson's legal representative has stated that his client will refrain from further comment out of respect for Panettiere's loved ones and the ongoing investigation.
Panettiere and Hickerson had reportedly traveled from Los Angeles to South Carolina the day before her death. Hickerson is originally from Greenville, South Carolina. Details of their visit's purpose remain unclear.
Panettiere's family remembered her as an "incredible light" who brought "immeasurable love and joy" to those who knew her. Her ex-fiancé, Wladimir Klitschko, also paid tribute to her on what would have been her 37th birthday, sharing a message celebrating her life and spirit.