Hayden Panettiere‘s family is worried about her safety.
The “Nashville” star’s friends and family are “begging” her to dump allegedly abusive boyfriend Brian Hickerson, according to a new report from People.
Hickerson currently faces a felony domestic violence charge. A source told the outlet that as a result, those closest to Panettiere, 29, “are begging her to straighten up and move ahead.”
“It is totally out of control and she has to get over this guy,” the source said.
“Her friends and family have been worried about her for quite a while, and things seem to have gotten worse,” the source added. “She needs to do some soul-searching. For whatever reason, she continues this relationship, but it has done nothing but take her down lower. It’s a sad situation.”
Panettiere’s family broke their silence on the ongoing trauma that not only the “Heroes” star faces but also other victims of domestic violence as well.
“We are hopeful that the judge makes the right decision,” the family said. “It’s an important message in terms of domestic violence for all women.”
Page Six previously reported that LAPD arrested Hickerson after a night of drinking with Panettiere. They returned to their home — where the alleged attack occurred — in the early morning hours. Police saw redness and marks on Panettiere’s body when they arrived and took Hickerson into custody.
Hickerson was later ordered to stay 100 yards away from the actress after he pleaded not guilty to one count of felony domestic violence.