WARNING: This story includes mentions of self-harm.
The family of Perez Hilton has revealed that his children, niece, and sister were present in the home shortly before the gossip blogger appeared to inflict harm on himself during a live TikTok broadcast.
In a recent statement shared on Hilton’s website on Thursday, the family is requesting privacy and understanding. “The distressing events of the last few days have been exceedingly difficult for our family,” the statement indicates.
“To ensure the safety, privacy, and well-being of the children, we kindly ask the media, paparazzi, content creators, and the public to refrain from approaching the area around the family’s residence and to not return.”
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Perez Hilton hospitalized after allegedly self-harming live on TikTok
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Perez Hilton livestreamed apparent self-harm. How did TikTok let this happen?
Hilton is a single parent to three children: a 13-year-old son, an 11-year-old daughter, and an 8-year-old daughter.
“When it became evident that Perez was undergoing a serious mental health crisis and causing harm to himself, they quickly left to shield the children from witnessing any additional trauma,” the statement continues.
“Our primary focus right now is to assist the children in starting to heal from what they have experienced. An essential aspect of this process is allowing them to return home safely and begin to restore a sense of security and normalcy.”
Hilton hospitalized on Tuesday night
The gossip blogger is currently in the hospital following incidents where he seemingly harmed himself during a TikTok livestream on Tuesday night.
According to an email from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office to CBC News, “the individual has been safely located and transported by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue to a nearby hospital, where he is receiving medical care.”
First responders were sent to his Miami residence on Tuesday evening after receiving numerous calls from worried fans about an individual who “was livestreaming acts of self-harm on social media.”
Upon arrival, deputies stated they communicated with family members and confirmed that he was alone during the livestream. Following the incident, authorities indicated they have “tactically disengaged” and will continue to monitor the situation while offering support to the family.
Hilton’s account suspended
“In many cases where a person is experiencing a mental health crisis or actively harming themselves, deputies prioritize de-escalation by creating time, distance, and opportunities for communication,” a spokesperson shared in an email with CBC News.
“Unless there is an immediate threat to others, calming the situation and applying crisis intervention strategies can lower the chances of a suicide-by-cop incident and reduce the risk of injury to the individual, deputies, and the public.”
Miami-Dade sheriff’s deputies visit the home where Hilton was found after he appeared to harm himself during a livestream. He was taken to hospital, and his TikTok account has been banned. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
As stated by a TikTok representative in the U.S., moderation teams flagged the livestream within moments and notified law enforcement about the situation.
Social media posts indicated that the livestream lasted around 30 minutes, but the platform informed CBC News that it was closer to 15 minutes, with several follow-up streams being terminated within 90 seconds.
Additionally, they confirmed that Hilton’s account has been suspended in accordance with the platform’s community guidelines.
Family and representatives request privacy
On Wednesday, Hilton’s family shared an earlier message on his website stating that he is “receiving medical care” and that the “family’s current focus is on his well-being.”
They also expressed their gratitude for the immense display of love, support, and prayers, adding that “if and when we are able to provide any updates, we will share them with everyone as promptly as possible.”
Celebrity blogger and influencer Perez Hilton was hospitalized after he appeared to harm himself while live on TikTok, prompting followers to call police.
Co-CEOs of Golden Artists Entertainment, Dante Rusciolelli and Rebekah Kochan, who represent Hilton, released a statement on Instagram.
“We are aware of the troubling content circulating online involving our client, Perez Hilton,” they stated, referencing the video and screenshots that subsequently spread on social media.
“At this moment, we have not been able to establish direct contact with him, despite our persistent efforts to reach him. Our foremost concern is Perez’s health and well-being, as well as that of his family. Until we have confirmed information, we will refrain from speculation or further comments.”
They concluded by expressing appreciation for everyone’s concern and requested that his privacy be respected during this challenging time.
Hilton launched his well-known celebrity gossip blog in the early 2000s, providing readers with an unfiltered perspective on significant Hollywood events.
If you or someone you know is in distress, here are some resources for assistance:
- Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988.
- Provincial and territorial mental health support.
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868. Text 686868. Live chat counseling available on the website.
- This guide from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health provides advice on how to discuss suicide with someone you’re concerned about.