Brian Hickerson’s Pursuit of Woman Before Hayden Panettiere’s Death

The 26-year-old woman, who requested anonymity, claims she met Hickerson at the Cat’s Pajamas bar on March 28. According to records reviewed by Page Six, Hickerson initiated contact the following day via Instagram, complimenting the woman and suggesting they meet for a drink at City Tavern. She reported having little memory of their initial encounter due to intoxication, but the two continued a text exchange through mid-April.

Throughout the conversation, Hickerson, now 37, claimed to have recently relocated to South Carolina from Los Angeles. He pushed for an upscale dinner at Halls Chophouse, repeatedly following up when the woman failed to respond to his invitations. She stated that she eventually lost interest due to the age gap and his persistent messaging, ultimately ceasing all contact on April 14. She did not realize his connection to Panettiere until the actress’s death brought Hickerson’s identity into the public spotlight.

This revelation adds to the scrutiny surrounding Hickerson, who remains a figure of controversy following a history of domestic violence allegations. While he has not been charged in relation to Panettiere’s death, the actress’s mother has publicly labeled him a toxic influence, asserting that his account of the events surrounding the day of the tragedy is inconsistent. Hickerson has previously sought counseling following a 2020 arrest and is reportedly banned from multiple establishments in the Greenville area.