Additional Coverage:
Los Angeles prosecutors recently revealed that Brian Hickerson continued using drugs during a court hearing held just days before the death of his girlfriend, actress Hayden Panettiere.
Hickerson, 37, appeared in court on August 13 regarding his petition to expunge felony domestic violence convictions related to Panettiere. The actress, known for her roles in “Nashville” and “Heroes,” passed away on August 16 at age 36.
In 2021, Hickerson pleaded no contest to two felony counts of corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant. He received a sentence including 45 days in jail, four years of formal probation, 52 domestic violence classes, $500 restitution, and a five-year protective order.
Last July, Hickerson sought to have the convictions expunged, claiming he had fulfilled all court requirements. However, prosecutors opposed the request, citing concerns over his sobriety during the August hearing.
Court records indicate that prosecutors referenced a May interview where Hickerson appeared “quite high on what appears to be a stimulant” and “very, very clearly not sober.” During the hearing, Hickerson spoke at length about the abuse detailed in Panettiere’s bestselling book, making several admissions.
The issue gained significance because Hickerson’s attorney asserted that the expungement was sought on the basis of Hickerson’s sobriety. Prosecutors countered this, noting a recent arrest from the previous year when Hickerson was allegedly intoxicated at a West Hollywood restaurant.
According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Hickerson was arrested twice in August 2025. One case related to an incident at Barney’s Beanery was dropped due to insufficient evidence. Another arrest on August 6, 2025, resulted in a misdemeanor charge for being under the influence of a controlled substance.
The court granted Hickerson judicial diversion, ordering him to complete 10 Narcotics Anonymous sessions, obey all laws, and abstain from drugs and alcohol. By January 14, 2026, Hickerson submitted proof of completing the required sessions, and with no further law enforcement contact reported between December 2025 and January 2026, his misdemeanor charge was dismissed.
Despite this, Judge Olivia Rosales denied Hickerson’s latest request for expungement, stating that he “has not remained free of new offenses.”
Two days after the hearing, Hickerson and Panettiere traveled to South Carolina. The following afternoon, Panettiere was found in cardiac arrest at a Greenville residence and later pronounced dead.
An autopsy found no signs of trauma contributing to her death. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the investigation remains active.
Hickerson’s attorney, Sloan Ellis, emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation, stating, “Hayden’s death remains under investigation, and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed. 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.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 or through the 988 Lifeline.