Hayden Panettiere’s mother says Brian Hickerson’s story of her daughter’s death is 'full of holes'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Hayden Panettiere’s death has raised several questions surrounding the circumstances of her passing. Panettiere’s mother, Lesley Vogel, has expressed doubts about the way the 'Nashville' actor’s death has been described.

During an interview with the Daily Mail, Vogel said that the account shared by Panettiere’s on-and-off boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, was essentially “full of holes.” Vogel also revealed that she told officers what she believed about her daughter’s relationship with Hickerson, describing him as “culpable."

Hayden Panettiere’s mother questions Brian Hickerson’s account of her death

During the interview, Vogel questioned Hickerson’s account, saying, “I don’t know how you can take a nap near someone who’s dying and not realize something’s wrong.” She further alleged, “I think Brian called his brother. My opinion. I think he knew she was deceased. Called his brother, and tried and built this story.”

Vogel appears unconvinced by the account Hickerson provided to police. According to Page Six, when the publication reached out to Hickerson’s attorney, Sloan Ellis, for comment, the lawyer responded, “Hayden’s death remains under investigation and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed.”

The statement continued, “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.”

Brian Hickerson reveals what happened before Hayden Panettiere’s death

Panettiere’s on-and-off boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, was with her at the time of her death in South Carolina and later provided an account of what happened. According to Vogel, Hickerson told police that he returned to the Airbnb, took a nap and woke up when his brother, Zach Hickerson, knocked on the door. That was when Panettiere was reportedly found unresponsive.

According to reports, Zach discovered Panettiere unresponsive on the couch at the Airbnb and reportedly found his brother asleep in a bedroom. Zach said they immediately called 911 and attempted to revive Panettiere by performing CPR while the emergency call was on speaker.

Hickerson had been Panettiere’s on-and-off boyfriend since 2018. However, the circumstances surrounding the actor’s sudden death have raised questions about what happened in her final hours, including the circumstances of her death and what substances may have been in her system.

The discussion surrounding Panettiere’s death has also drawn attention to the broader pressures faced by child actors and young performers. Her death has renewed conversations about how Hollywood treats young stars and highlighted concerns surrounding their vulnerability, well-being and safety while working under intense pressure.