Brian Hickerson’s sister, Ashley, has spoken about his on-and-off relationship with Hayden Panettiere, saying his personality and charm helped explain why the actress kept returning to him despite the couple’s troubled history.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Ashley described Brian as “the most charismatic person” and said he had a personality that could draw people in. She also said she understood why Panettiere was attracted to him, describing her brother as someone who was fun and could make people laugh.
Ashley’s comments were reported by TMZ, which noted that she also claimed Brian had sought treatment and taken responsibility for his past behavior.
“He did seek treatment and he was getting help. He did own up to his s–t,”
Ashley said.
Panettiere and Hickerson began dating in 2018 and had an on-and-off relationship that continued for years. Their relationship was marked by multiple allegations and criminal cases involving domestic violence, with Hickerson later serving jail time after pleading no contest to injuring Panettiere.
Panettiere died on August 16, 2026, at age 36 after being found unresponsive in Greenville, South Carolina. Hickerson and his brother Zach were present at the scene, according to a police report, but authorities have said there were no signs of foul play. The official cause of death remains under investigation, with toxicology results pending.
Ashley also suggested that drugs contributed to her brother’s past behavior, saying, “We all have our demons. Brian was not raised that way. It wasn’t until he got into drugs that he went south.” Her comments have added another perspective to the public discussion surrounding Panettiere and Hickerson’s complicated relationship.