Paris Hilton Mourns Presley Gerber: "Beautiful Soul"

Paris Hilton has honored her friend Presley Gerber, describing him as a “beautiful soul” following his death at the age of 27.

“I’m completely heartbroken. I still can’t believe this is real,” Hilton, 45, shared on her Instagram Stories Sunday, accompanied by a throwback photo of the pair. “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 reflected on her friendship with Gerber, the son of supermodel Cindy Crawford. The two had often crossed paths at social events in Los Angeles. Gerber attended Hilton’s 39th birthday celebration in February 2020 and was present at the premiere of her “Infinite Icon: A Visual Memoir” in January 2026.

“I’ll always cherish the memories we shared – the laughs, the conversations, and just being around you,” Hilton wrote. “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. I hope you knew how deeply loved you were and how many people cared about you. 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.”

Gerber, who had been open about his struggles with addiction, died at a rehabilitation facility. An autopsy has not yet been completed.

Gerber, who began his modeling career with IMG Models at 15, had previously spoken about his battles with substance abuse and mental health. In 2019, he was arrested for DUI in Beverly Hills. He pleaded no contest to the misdemeanor charge and was sentenced to probation, community service, and a DUI program. In 2024, he revealed a severe, multi-year opiate addiction and a near-fatal fentanyl overdose that led to a coma. He later sought treatment at a rehab facility.

His sister, Kaia Gerber, spoke candidly about his addiction struggles in an interview last month, telling Vogue that such challenges affect the entire family. “We have this absolute teacher, my brother, who says, ‘I’m gonna be very human for everyone.’ There’s only so much you can hide from the world. And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you’re ashamed of them.”