Actress Hayden Panettiere died on August 16 at the age of 36 in South Carolina, prompting her mother Lesley Vogel to speak out.
The circumstances surrounding the death of the Scream and Heroes star remain under investigation while law enforcement officials await the results of a toxicology report.
In an interview with NBC News, Vogel broke her silence to address her daughter's passing and singled out Panettiere's ex-boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, as a harmful presence in the actress's final days.
Vogel stated that the person her family had been trying to get rid of for a long time was with her daughter at the moment of her death, naming Hickerson as that individual.
Mother speaks on Hollywood pressure and family strain
Vogel, who previously served as Panettiere's manager, shared her perspective on the difficulties faced by young performers in the entertainment industry.
She described the industry as a demanding sector and a constant struggle, adding that it is not uncommon for young people growing up in Hollywood to end up taking the wrong path.
Reflecting on her daughter's life, Vogel said Panettiere had lost her way and expressed her wish that things had turned out differently. She noted that Panettiere had possessed many incredible qualities and exceptional talent across multiple fields, wishing she had remained true to herself.
The statements follow years of estrangement between the mother and daughter. Panettiere had previously fired Vogel as her manager and accused her of caring only about money, though the actress had indicated three months prior to her death that a reconciliation remained possible.
History of domestic allegations and ongoing investigation
Panettiere had maintained an on-and-off relationship with Hickerson, a bond marked by previous reports of domestic violence and legal proceedings.
Panettiere rose to international fame as a child actor before starring as Claire Bennet in the NBC drama series Heroes and as Juliette Barnes in the musical drama Nashville. Her screen credits also include the horror franchise Scream and the cheerleading comedy Bring It On.
Authorities in South Carolina continue to examine the circumstances surrounding Panettiere's death while awaiting formal toxicology findings.
