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Brian Hickerson, the former boyfriend of the late actress Hayden Panettiere, has reportedly lost 40 pounds since her unexpected passing, according to recent reports. The 37-year-old is said to be deeply heartbroken and continues to grieve the loss of Hayden, who died at 36.
Zach Hickerson, Brian’s brother, spoke to TMZ about Brian’s ongoing emotional struggle following Hayden’s death. The brothers recently went out in an effort to help Brian get some fresh air and distraction, but the evening ended with Zach being arrested for disorderly conduct after an altercation at Wild Wing Cafe in Greenville, South Carolina.
During the incident, Brian was allegedly subjected to harassment and accusations related to Hayden’s death, with one individual reportedly telling him he “probably beat her to death.” Both brothers have firmly denied any involvement in the actress’s passing.
Prior to her death in May, Hayden had opened up about alleged abuse in her memoir, This Is Me Now. Around the time of the memoir’s release, Brian admitted to his own troubling behavior, calling it “terrible” and reflecting on his lack of understanding about domestic violence.
He remarked, “Never in my life did I ever get taught what domestic violence was, right? Maybe if I did at an early age, maybe I wouldn’t have done what I did.
We don’t know. It’s one of those things you think about.”
Brian issued a formal statement on August 20 through his attorney, Sloan Ellis, emphasizing the importance of allowing the ongoing investigation into Hayden’s death to continue without interference. Sloan noted, “Hayden’s death remains under investigation, and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed.
As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play. Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time.”
In previous interviews, Zach shared details about the tragic day. After finding Hayden unconscious, Brian administered Narcan while Zach called 911.
Zach described their efforts: “When I left church, I called and texted both of them. When I didn’t reach Brian or Hayden, I just assumed maybe they fell back asleep, so I drove over and went to the Airbnb.
I knocked loudly, which apparently woke Brian up from a nap they were both taking on the pull-out couch bed in the living room. When we went in and tried to wake Hayden up for lunch, we realized she was unconscious.”
The brothers then performed CPR together with 911 on speaker until emergency responders arrived. Zach said, “At that point, we watched as they tried every measure possible to save her life.”
The investigation into Hayden Panettiere’s death continues as her family and loved ones seek answers amid a difficult and painful time.