Hayden Panettiere Hangs With Ex After He's Released From Jail For Domestic Violence

Hayden Panettiere is back hanging out with her ex-boyfriend, who was arrested for domestic assault against the actress and spent time behind bars for the incident.

According to multiple reports, the 'Nashville' star spent time together with Brian Hickerson in West Hollywood over the weekend, and was allegedly drinking, line dancing, and having a good time.

Hickerson confirmed the Los Angeles meetup and told E!, "To clarify, I was enjoying a Miller 'Latte' [slang for Miller Lite], and Hayden was not drinking." Adding, "We went to a new restaurant that is Texas-based and being a Southern guy, I'm a big fan of country music. So yes, there was some line dancing involved. Hayden and I are not back together but are working on a friendship."

He continued, "We have a long history together, and the first step in my recovery as an abuser is making amends. That's exactly what Hayden has been gracious enough to allow me to do."

As we've reported, Brian was arrested in 2019 for allegedly harming Panettiere after an argument turned physical. He was arrested again in February of 2020 in Wyoming for domestic battery after he was accused of hitting the actress. In the end, he was sentenced to 45 days in county jail, and ordered to complete 52 domestic violence classes. He was also placed on four years of formal probation.

The actress spoke out on the situation, saying, "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." Adding, "I am prepared to do my part to make sure this man never hurts anyone again. I'm grateful for my support system, which helped me find the courage to regain my voice and my life."

After the arrests, Hayden's attorney addressed the situation, saying, "After suffering for years as the victim of psychological, emotional and severe physical abuse, Hayden Panettiere has begun the process of taking back her life. Hayden has found the strength and courage to share the truth about her abuse and her abuser, and she intends to assist the prosecution to see that justice is served. As a survivor, she recognizes that her arduous journey of healing has just begun."

At this point, Hayden is "open to forgiving Brian and starting a new chapter, despite her loved one's concerns," a source told E! Hayden has a huge heart and wants to see the best in everyone."

It's unclear if Panettiere is giving her ex-boyfriend another shot in the romantic relationship department, but we are guessing friends and family are wary of the situation.

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