Celebrity blogger Perez Hilton remains hospitalized in Florida following a self-harm incident earlier this week. According to his family, Hilton suffered significant blood loss and will require surgery as part of his ongoing treatment. While his condition is serious but stable, his recovery is expected to take a considerable amount of time.
Family Issues New Health Update
Hilton’s family released a statement on Saturday via PerezHilton.com to address misinformation circulating online about his condition and the circumstances of his hospitalization. They emphasized that only statements published on the official website should be regarded as authentic. Hilton is currently hospitalized under Florida’s Baker Act, which allows for temporary detention of individuals experiencing a mental health crisis for evaluation and treatment. His communication has been limited to immediate family, medical staff, and those involved in his care. He has not spoken to the media or made public comments since being hospitalized.
‘Significant Blood Loss’ and Surgery Ahead
The update from his family highlighted the severity of Hilton’s injuries, specifying that he experienced significant blood loss and additional injuries requiring surgery soon. They cautioned that his treatment and rehabilitation will be lengthy. Hilton has had the opportunity to spend time with his mother and sister during this period.
What Happened?
The incident gained attention online on August 4. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of someone livestreaming self-harm acts from a Miami area residence. Authorities confirmed the person was safely recovered and taken to a hospital. NBC News and People identified Hilton as the individual involved, whose legal name is Mario Lavandeira. TikTok notified Newsweek of its automated moderation systems flagging the livestream swiftly, leading to human moderation and law enforcement alert. The livestream was removed after about 15 minutes, and the account was permanently banned.
Family Requests Privacy
Hilton’s family issued a firm request for privacy as they focus on his treatment and recovery. The statement urged the media and public to refrain from gathering outside their home, following family members, or photographing Hilton’s children. They assured that the children are safe and being looked after by immediate family members. The statement stressed, “There is absolutely no reason for members of the media or the public to remain outside the family’s home,” and asked photo agencies not to circulate images of the children.
What Happens Next?
As of Sunday, no timeline has been provided for Hilton’s discharge from the hospital. Surgery is anticipated in the coming days, and his recovery will be a long-term process.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988, texting “988” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or visiting 988lifeline.org.
Contact Newsweek editors for this story: Matthew Robinson and Robert Greenall.