Concern for Perez Hilton (48): The American celebrity blogger is in a hospital following a police response. Viewers of a TikTok livestream had called emergency services after Hilton allegedly showed acts of self-harm during the broadcast.
According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office as reported by media outlets, emergency responders were called to a residence in Miami on Tuesday after reports came in about a man showing "acts of self-harm" during a livestream. Authorities confirmed that the individual was eventually safely transported to a hospital where he is receiving medical care.
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According to police, the man was alone at home at the time of the livestream. Additionally, specially trained crisis intervention teams and mental health professionals were on site to support the family. While authorities did not name the individual, multiple US media outlets have consistently reported that it was Perez Hilton. Shortly after the incident, his TikTok account was suspended.
Police opted for de-escalation
After conversations with family members, emergency responders initially decided on a de-escalating approach. In a statement, the Sheriff's Office explained that with people in a mental health crisis, time and distance are often deliberately created to enable safe communication and minimize the risk of injury to all parties involved.
Later, authorities announced that the man had been transported to a hospital. The family continues to be supported by professionals.
Management responds
The blogger's management also issued a statement. In a statement to "Variety", Dante Rusciolelli and Rebekah Kochan said they were aware of the "concerning content" currently circulating online.
"Our primary concern is for Perez's health and well-being, as well as the well-being of his family," the statement reads. They said they had initially been unable to establish direct contact with him and did not want to speculate about the incident until further information was confirmed. At the same time, the managers asked that his privacy be respected.
From feared gossip blogger to family man
Perez Hilton, whose real name is Mario Lavandeira, became known in the early 2000s with his eponymous celebrity blog. His stage name is a play on hotel heiress Paris Hilton, about whom he frequently reported at the time.
His blog made him one of the most prominent figures in US gossip media. At the same time, he repeatedly drew criticism for his often biting and hurtful comments. Among others, Miley Cyrus, Khloé Kardashian, Mila Kunis, and Lady Gaga have spoken negatively about his coverage in the past.
In recent years, however, Hilton has undergone an image transformation. In his autobiography published in 2020, he acknowledged regretting many of his earlier statements. He particularly regrets having hurt people and even mocked the children of prominent individuals.
Today, Hilton continues to run his celebrity blog, publishes content on his social media channels, and hosts a weekly podcast. He is also the father of three children who were born via surrogate.
