There has been quite a bit of drama surrounding Nashville star and mom-of-one Hayden Panettiere. It has been reported that Panettiere’s 4-year-old daughter, Kaya, has been living with her father, former professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko, in Ukraine for over a year. This comes after the news that her boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, is facing a felony charge in connection with an alleged domestic violence incident involving the actress.
Hickerson allegedly hit Panettiere in early May of this year. He was arrested after police confirmed the appearance of “redness and marks” on Panettiere following a fight between the couple. At that time, allegedly, Panettiere informed police about three incidents of domestic violence involving Hickerson.
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Hickerson tried to have the felony domestic violence charge dismissed earlier this month but was instead told by the judge that sufficient evidence existed to charge him. He still faces the charge and was also slapped with a restraining order, which means he is not allowed within 100 yards of Panettiere.
According to People, family members and friends of the actress are worried about her well-being and have been begging her to cut ties with her boyfriend. In response to this latest news, Panettiere’s lawyer told the publication that she regularly sees her daughter and is not communicating with Brian Hickerson.
In February, Panettiere tweeted an adoring photo of her and Kaya with the caption “Sweet moments with sleeping babes.” In defense of his then-girlfriend, who was being scrutinized for living in the U.S. without her daughter, Hickerson spoke out to Access, saying: “Hayden is actually on a family vacation right now with her daughter and the Champ, so don’t believe everything you read. She’s a great mom.”
Panettiere has been candid about her struggle with postpartum depression, opening up about her experience on Good Morning America after her daughter’s birth. “It takes a while and you feel off you don’t feel like yourself. But, you know, women are so resilient and that’s the incredible thing about them. And I think I’m all the stronger for it. I think I’m a better mom for it because you never take that connection for granted.”