Paris Hilton Mourns Friend Presley Gerber

Paris Hilton has expressed her devastation following the death of her friend, model Presley Gerber, who passed away at the age of 27. Hilton described herself as "completely heartbroken" and shared her grief on Instagram stories, posting a photo of herself with Gerber and writing, "I still can't believe this is real." She remembered Gerber as a "beautiful soul," noting his kindness and sincerity.

"Presley, you were such a beautiful soul. So sweet, sensitive, kind and genuine. I cared about you so much, and I'm going to miss you more than words can say," Hilton wrote. She added that she would "cherish the memories" they made, highlighting their laughs and conversations. "You had such a gentle heart and there was something so special about you that anyone who was lucky enough to know you could feel."

Hilton concluded her tribute by extending condolences to Gerber's family, stating, "My heart is with your entire family during this unimaginable time. Rest in peace, my friend. Love you forever. You will be so deeply missed."

Others also shared messages of sympathy. Entertainment journalist Jason Kennedy wrote, "Love you Presley." One commenter on Gerber's final Instagram post said, "Omg Presley. No words, such a kind soul. Rest easy, sending so much love.." Internet personality Chase Keith posted, "rest in peace man," while actress Larsen Thompson acknowledged "the bravery, courage, strength, and humility you walked in to share your fight.. You will never be forgotten Presley."

Gerber's last public appearance was on January 20 for the premiere of Hilton's documentary, "Infinite Icon: A Visual Memoir." Hours before news of his passing on Sunday emerged, Hilton had commented on Gerber's August Instagram post, where he was modeling clothes for the brand Vuori, writing, "Love you bro" with heart emojis.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed Gerber died Sunday at a rehab facility, according to TMZ. His cause of death has not been revealed. His most recent Instagram photos showed him modeling athleisure wear outdoors.

Four months prior to his death, Gerber was photographed with his mother, Cindy Crawford, and sister, Kaia Gerber, at the RE/DONE x Kaia Gerber Short/Cuts Launch event in Los Angeles. His mother's representative stated, "The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time."

Last month, Kaia Gerber spoke about how her brother's struggles with drug use and mental health had impacted their family. She told Vogue, "When something like that happens in a family, it kind of levels everyone." She also described herself as the "easy one" in the family, as she did not want to add to the burden of their parents.

In November, Presley Gerber had announced he was taking a break from social media to focus on his mental health. He later shared details about his medication regimen for "night terrors" and "panic attacks," which included Buprenorphine, benzodiazepines, Xanax, and Valium. He expressed frustration with the lack of clear direction from his numerous psychiatrists.

Kaia Gerber found her brother's openness "refreshing," noting that he chose to be "very human for everyone" despite their parents' past privacy. She added that trying to conceal such struggles would only make him feel ashamed.

In May, Presley Gerber posted a heartfelt tribute to his father, Rande Gerber, expressing his deep appreciation. His father responded, "I am honored [to] take this ride called life with you over and over any time. Sometimes we may fall but with a little help always get back up. I love you forever Prez."

Gerber had previously discussed his mental health struggles, which he noted began at a "very young age" and called "the ultimate pandemic." In a 2023 podcast appearance, he stated, "That is really what I want to do - help people, whether you're depressed, you're struggling with something that is having a negative effect on your body."