The following story contains discussion of domestic violence.

While Hayden Panettiere of "Heroes" and "Nashville" may light up the screen in every project she's in, things haven't been so bright for the actor off-camera. In December 2014, Panettiere gave birth to her first child, daughter Kaya Evdokia, and afterward, she began experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression.

Panettiere eventually sought help at a treatment facility, and on Good Morning America, she opened up about her experience: "It takes a while and you feel off, you don't feel like yourself […] I think I'm all the stronger for it. I think I'm a better mom for it because you never take that connection for granted."

After splitting with Wladimir Klitschko, her daughter's father, Panettiere moved on to Brian Hickerson. The couple were ensnared in controversy throughout their relationship; in 2018, police were called following an altercation between Hickerson and his father, with "​​what appeared to be blood" on the latter's face.

Things took a turn for the worse when Hickerson was arrested for domestic violence in 2019, then again in 2020 for allegedly punching Panettiere in the face. Hickerson was ultimately sentenced and served 45 days in jail, but as of October 2021, the couple has seemingly rekindled their relationship.