Hayden Panettiere’s Mother Speaks Out After Tragic Loss

Hayden Panettiere’s mother, Lesley Vogel, has broken her silence following the devastating passing of her daughter, known for her work in “Heroes.” Panettiere, aged 36, was pronounced deceased in Greenville, South Carolina. Her on-and-off boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, and his brother were present at her passing, as indicated by a police report.

Vogel criticized Hickerson in an interview with NBC News, stating her concern over his presence at the time of Panettiere’s death. She described her daughter as an exceptional talent who struggled within the challenging entertainment industry. Hickerson has not commented on the matter.

Vogel managed Panettiere’s career during her childhood. However, their professional relationship ended when Panettiere was 19, and they became estranged earlier this year. In May, Panettiere mentioned to US Weekly about the lack of a current relationship with her mother but expressed hope for future reconciliation.

Hayden Panettiere and Brian Hickerson’s relationship spanned from 2018 until 2022.

Preliminary autopsy findings showed no trauma that caused her death. Statements from the Greenville County Coroner’s Office confirmed that life-saving efforts were unsuccessful after Panettiere was found in cardiac arrest. The cause of death is pending further investigation, with both the Coroner’s Office and Greenville Police Department involved.

The investigation remains active, with no further details available.

Panettiere found fame with her role in “Heroes.” She is survived by her daughter, Kaya, born in 2014, with her ex-fiancé, boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko.

Klitschko expressed shock and grief on social media, committing to keep Panettiere’s memory alive for their daughter. Despite no longer being partners, he described her as an essential part of his life and praised her career and talents.

In her memoir, This Is Me: A Reckoning, released in May, Panettiere discussed why she consented to Klitschko having full custody of their daughter in 2018, recognizing the supportive environment offered by him in Europe. She prioritized her child’s well-being over a public custody battle, noting her intentions to remain a part of her daughter’s life.

The family’s loss is compounded by the unexpected passing of Panettiere’s younger brother, Jansen, in February 2023.