Who Is Brian Hickerson? Hayden Panettiere's Ex-boyfriend Said They Parted Ways on Good Terms

Brian Hickerson once frequented news due to his inappropriate behavior towards one of his family members and to his famous then-girlfriend, Hayden Panettiere. However, he eventually faced the consequences of his past actions.

Even though not many people were familiar with him, Brian Hickerson was able to break into the entertainment business thanks to a brief but unforgettable acting role. There are only 58 photos on his Instagram.

Since 2018, Hickerson has only posted once or twice on his Instagram. Nonetheless, Hiickerson's relationship with actress Hayden Panettiere had made headlines in the past.

Who He Is

Hickerson is known as a real estate agent, but he also gave acting a shot in the hopes of finding success in Hollywood. In 2017, he appeared in the film "M.F.A.," in which he played Officer Williams.

The up-and-coming actor was born and raised in South Carolina. Still, he currently resides in Los Angeles, California, where he is actively pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.

Time in Jail

While Hickerson had the opportunity in the entertainment industry, he had been involved in multiple instances of breaking the law, which marred his public image and path toward stardom.

From 2018 to 2022, he was in the news for several alleged abusive incidents. According to Us Magazine, Hickerson allegedly had an altercation with his father in November 2018, leaving Panettiere, who was intoxicated at the time, feeling "frantic."

Seven months later, in May 2019, Hickerson again found himself on the news. He was reportedly arrested for domestic violence after police discovered "redness and marks" on Panettiere's body after the couple argued.

The twosome patched things up shortly after the argument and was spotted holding hands afterward. But two weeks later, a Los Angeles courthouse charged Hickerson with felony domestic violence.

In the aftermath of Hickerson's case, the prosecutor requested a protective order for Panettiere. The issued order stated that it disallowed the emerging actor to come within 100 yards of the "Nashville" actress.

Furthermore, the order barred the up-and-coming actor from communicating with the "Bring It On: All or Nothing" star in any way, which included sending her an email, calling, or texting her on the phone.

According to a source, one of Panettiere's loved ones was extremely concerned about her, saying she was "out of control" and begging her to stay away from Hickerson.

However, in September 2019, Hickerson's felony domestic violence case was dropped. However, a few months after his case was dismissed, he was arrested again for allegedly assaulting Panettiere in July 2020.

At least eight counts of domestic violence and assault—one misdemeanor and seven felonies—were reportedly filed against Hickerson. He was also charged for allegedly intimidating or influencing a witness in August 2020.

According to the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office, Hickerson pled no contest in April 2021 to two felony counts of injuring a spouse or girlfriend. He was sentenced to 45 days in jail but was ordered to serve four years of formal probation.

The court also imposed a $500 restitution order, a five-year protective order, and a requirement that he attend 52 domestic violence classes. The court also dropped the remaining six charges against him.

Another incident brought Hickerson again into the spotlight. It occurred in March 2022, when he reportedly fought with fellow men who dined at a restaurant inside a famous Los Angeles hotel. Hickerson and Panettiere were also in the restaurant.

The melee allegedly erupted after Hickerson remarked to someone who had left a low tip for a waitress. According to her representative, Panettiere was knocked out during the public brawl, but she suffered no injuries.

Immediately following the case in July 2020, Panettiere once issued a statement stating that she would reveal the truth about what had happened to her to empower people in abusive relationships. She added:

"I am prepared to do my part to make sure this man never hurts anyone again. I'm grateful for my support system, which helped me find the courage to regain my voice and my life."

Their Relationships

Hickerson and the entertainer had a four-year relationship. They began dating in the summer of 2018. According to Panettiere in a People and Good Morning America interview via Daily Mail report, she started dealing with alcohol and drug abuse.

Their relationship started shortly after Panettiere parted ways from her former fiance, Ukrainian former professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko with whom she shares her only daughter, Kaya Evdokia.

Personal issues, alcohol, and drug abuse have contributed to the downfall of not only her and her ex-fiancé but also Hickerson. During her time with Hickerson, she said it was "a very difficult and complicated time in her life."

According to a source, one of Panettiere's loved ones was highly concerned about her, saying she was "out of control" and begging her to stay away from Hickerson. The T.V. star fully admitted that she was not at her best.

After a tough, long year of the on-and-off couple, Hickerson and Panettiere ultimately separated for good. Hickerson, who remains on probation for alleged domestic violence incidents, confirmed in July 2022 that he and his partner were no longer together.

Hickerson expressed excitement about new beginnings, although neither he nor his former girlfriend would ever get back together. He revealed that he had previously sought professional help treatment for his inappropriate behavior.

Hayden Panettiere said she and Hickerson remain on good terms despite their tumultuous relationship. She also stated that what happened to her was a horrible experience. She said she is working hard to "live in a place of forgiveness."