Threatening messages from Hayden Panettiere's ex revealed after her death

Newly surfaced court documents detail threatening messages sent by Brian Hickerson to actress Hayden Panettiere following his arrest for domestic violence in February 2020. The messages, part of a case involving an assault between 2018 and 2020, suggest Hickerson attempted to intimidate Panettiere into halting legal proceedings.

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I guess it's time to go to war.

According to the probable cause affidavit, Hickerson's texts included phrases like "I guess it's time to go to war" and warnings that his overseas assets would emerge, damaging Panettiere's reputation while clearing his own. He also urged her to "say something" to avoid him becoming defensive and contacting "everyone."

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Although I spend ten years in a cell, everything that is stored abroad with my people will come to light. That will only harm your reputation and clear mine.

One message stated, "It's a very simple solution; between you and me, you just have to make one call. I don't want to go to trial, for you." These communications offer a stark glimpse into the dynamics of their relationship, which spanned from 2018 to 2020.

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Say something, Hayd, so I don't get defensive and start emailing everyone.

The release of these messages comes after Panettiere's death on August 16, 2026, in South Carolina at the age of 36. Hickerson was reportedly present at the location where her body was found. Days later, local police visited his family's residence, though official reasons were not disclosed.

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It's a very simple solution; between you and me, you just have to make one call. I don't want to go to trial, for you.