Hayden Panettiere’s mom makes new statement post-backlash, blames ‘toxic’ person for death
Lesley Vogel released a new statement regarding daughter Hayden Panettiere’s death — after sparking backlash with her initial comments.
“Although my daughter and I were estranged, it was not for lack of care or love,” the 70-year-old told Entertainment Tonight on Thursday. “It was due to the involvement of a toxic individual who I believe led to her death.”
While Vogel did not name names, she previously blasted Brian Hickerson, Panettiere’s on-again, off-again boyfriend who was on the scene when the late actress died of an apparent overdose in South Carolina on Sunday.
She continued, “Hayden was a beautiful and talented young woman who unfortunately became involved with the wrong person, and although her family tried to extricate him from her life, we were unable to be successful.”
“I hope all remember Hayden for the beautiful human being inside her and her gift to the world from her time on this earth,” Vogel added. “My heart is with you, Hayden. Mama.”
Additionally, Vogel pointed out that the Drug Enforcement Administration has joined the investigation into Panettiere’s passing.
“It leads me to believe there are still questions surrounding what happened, and I think we are all looking for answers,” she said.
Hickerson’s lawyer did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.
He did, however, speak out via his lawyer on Thursday, with the attorney writing, “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.”
The cause of death is not yet known for Panettiere, who was 36 at the time of her death.
According to the police report obtained by Page Six, Zach Hickerson, Brian’s brother, found Panettiere’s body on a chair while his sibling slept in the next room.
Zach, notably, referred to Panettiere as Brian’s “girlfriend” while speaking to officials.
The “Nashville” alum has been linked to Brian on and off since 2018 in a tumultuous romance marred by domestic violence.
Vogel railed against Brian in her initial statement, shared Tuesday.
“This person in her life that we have been trying to get rid of for quite some time was with her at her death,” Vogel wrote, “and that was Brian Hickerson.”
She added, “I think Hayden was an amazingly talented person in so many departments. And I think young people who grow up in the entertainment industry — it is a struggle, and it’s a very challenging industry, and it’s not unusual for them to sadly find the wrong path.”
Gayle King and her “CBS Mornings” co-hosts slammed the “unseemly” statement on Wednesday, with the journalist quipping, “Thanks, Mom, for nothing.”
Holly Robinson Peete backed King’s response via X and accused Vogel of lacking “integrity.”
If you or someone you care about is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
