Prepare for Hayden Panettiere’s comeback szn!
According to a People source, the former Nashville star is ready to make big positive changes in her life after reporting her ex-boyfriend Brian Hickerson for alleged domestic abuse.
As we reported, the 30-year-old actress told authorities in California that the aspiring actor had been violent toward her during their relationship. He was arrested on July 16 in El Lay on eight charges alleging abusive incidents from May 2019 to January 2020 — all of which Hickerson denied.
Related: Hayden’s Ex-Fiancé Has Been ‘Extremely Supportive’ Following Her Split From Brian
Now that she’s finally shared her truth, an insider said Hayden is ready to put this scary chapter of her life behind her, telling the outlet:
“Hayden was finally ready to change her life for the better. She is now surrounded by people who care about her and not someone who tries to control her and prey on her weaknesses.”
Good for her!
According to an indictment, Hayden’s allegations against Hickerson include four felony charges of corporal injury on a spouse/cohabitant; two felony charges of assault with a deadly weapon; a misdemeanor charge of battery on a spouse/cohabitant; and a felony charge of dissuading a witness from prosecuting a crime.
In her statement, the Heroes star said:
“I am coming forward with the truth about what happened to me with the hope that my story will empower others in abusive relationships to get the help they need and deserve. I am prepared to do my part to make sure this man never hurts anyone again.”
Yes! Sounds like Hayden’s becoming an actual hero for victims and survivors of domestic abuse!
In addition to standing up to her allegedly violent ex, the starlet is also taking care of herself. Another source told the outlet that Hayden has been “focused on healing, sobriety and recovery” as she continues to seek treatment for alcohol abuse issues. The source added:
“This is a turning point for her… Self-esteem and confidence work wonders on those who have been dragged down by abusive people and users. I hope those days have ended for Hayden.”
Based on the restraining order Hayden was granted against him, we’d say she’s finally ready to make a clean break.
As fans know, Panettiere’s relationship with Hickerson — which started two years ago after she split from former fiancé Wladimir Klitschko (with whom she shares 5-year-old daughter Kaya) — quickly turned sour. He was arrested in LA on a charge of domestic violence against the actress the following May, but she refused to testify, causing the case to be dismissed.
He was charged again in February with domestic battery and interference with police in Jackson, Wyoming, after he allegedly punched the actress — to which he pleaded not guilty. Hickerson also pleaded not guilty to the latest charges, and his bail was set at $320,000.
We’re so glad to hear she’s moving on!
[Image via Hayden Panettiere/Instagram]
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