MIAMI—Celebrity gossip blogger Perez Hilton was hospitalized after authorities responded to reports that he appeared to engage in acts of self-harm during a TikTok livestream, according to the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office, while his family and representatives appealed for privacy as he received medical care.
The incident unfolded on the evening of Aug. 4, when emergency services received multiple calls from viewers concerned about a livestream originating from Hilton's Miami-area home. The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office said deputies and crisis intervention personnel responded after receiving reports of an individual livestreaming apparent acts of self-harm.
Authorities said officers initially employed crisis de-escalation procedures before ensuring Hilton, whose legal name is Mario Armando Lavandeira Jr., was transported safely to a local hospital by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue for treatment. Officials said he was alone at the residence when deputies arrived.
The sheriff's office did not release additional details about Hilton's medical condition, citing privacy considerations. Officials also did not characterize the nature or severity of his injuries beyond confirming that he was receiving medical care.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Hilton's family and management thanked supporters for their concern and confirmed that he was receiving treatment. They requested privacy while he focused on his recovery and said any future updates would be shared if appropriate.
TikTok said the livestream violated its policies prohibiting graphic and self-harm-related content. The company said its automated systems detected the broadcast but that a "moderator error" delayed its removal. TikTok added that it notified law enforcement shortly after the livestream began and subsequently suspended Hilton's account.
Hilton rose to prominence in the early 2000s through his celebrity gossip website before expanding into podcasting, television appearances and other entertainment ventures. Earlier this year, he publicly discussed a prolonged hospitalization related to severe medical complications, including sepsis, and described the experience as life-changing.
As of Aug. 6, no criminal investigation had been announced in connection with the incident. Authorities said the matter had been handled as a mental health crisis response, and Hilton remained under medical care according to the latest statements from officials and his representatives.
