Hayden Panettiere’s mother, Lesley Vogel, has addressed her estrangement from her daughter in the years leading up to the actress’ sudden death at age 36.
Hayden Panettiere’s mother issues statement
“Although my daughter and I were estranged, it was not for lack of care or love,” Vogel said in a statement to Entertainment Tonight. “It was due to the involvement of a toxic individual who I believe led to her death.“Vogel did not identify the individual she was referring to. However, earlier this week, she dissed Panettiere’s on-again, off-again boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, who was reportedly present at the apartment when the actress was found dead.
Hayden Panettiere’s mother takes a dig at actress’ boyfriend
In her latest statement shared with Entertainment Tonight, Vogel said, “Hayden was a beautiful and talented young woman who unfortunately became involved with the wrong person, and although her family tried to extricate him from her life, we were unable to be successful.”“It leads me to believe there are still questions surrounding what happened,” she added. “And I think we are all looking for answers.”Vogel previously said that the family had been trying to get Hickerson out of Panettiere’s life “for quite some time”.
Hayden Panettiere death case
Panettiere died on Sunday in Greenville, South Carolina, at the age of 36. An autopsy has been completed, while toxicology testing is still underway. According to Vogel, a narcotics investigator has also joined the police investigation into the actress’ death.
Hayden Panettiere’s boyfriend issues statement
Hickerson, meanwhile, has issued his first statement following Panettiere’s death through his attorney, Sloan Ellis. Four days after the actress’ death, Ellis said in a statement, “Hayden’s death remains under investigation, and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed. As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play. Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time.“The statement comes amid growing public discussion surrounding Vogel’s comments about her daughter’s struggles and her relationship with Hickerson.
Gayle King slams Hayden Panettiere’s mother
On Wednesday’s episode of CBS Mornings, Gayle King criticised Vogel’s decision to publicly discuss Panettiere’s addiction struggles and troubled relationship following the actress’ death. After reading Vogel’s statement, King described the comments as “sad”. “You know, guys, you read this and all I can think is, ‘Thanks, Mom, for nothing,’” King said.CBS Mornings co-anchor Vladimir Duthiers also expressed his displeasure with Vogel’s remarks, saying he believed it was wrong to publicly discuss the circumstances surrounding the late actress’ life in such a manner.The investigation into Panettiere’s death remains ongoing.
