The professional partner of celebrity blogger Perez Hilton has issued his first public statement following the troubling events that led to his cohost's hospitalization this week.
Chris Booker, 55, who has collaborated with Hilton on their podcast since 2015, shared an emotional message on Wednesday, August 5, expressing deep concern for his colleague and the family navigating this crisis.
"I am so profoundly sad for Perez and his family and what they're all going through. It's truly unimaginable," Booker wrote via Instagram on Wednesday. "I have only spoken briefly with the family. I read the statement that his team released and want to honor their wishes at this impossible time."
The situation has created significant challenges for those seeking information about Hilton's condition. Booker noted that even family members face obstacles obtaining updates because of stringent privacy protocols implemented at the medical facility.
"Even the family is struggling to get updates due to the confidential security measures in place at the hospital because of how many people are trying to get information," Booker explained in his statement.
The incident that precipitated Hilton's hospitalization occurred on Tuesday, August 4, when Miami-Dade police received multiple welfare calls after the 48-year-old blogger broadcast acts of self-harm during a TikTok livestream. Authorities characterized the situation as a possible suicide attempt.
A Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office spokesperson confirmed that deputies responded to the residence after receiving reports of an individual livestreaming self-harm on social media. Law enforcement personnel spoke with family members at the scene and confirmed Hilton was alone inside the residence.
The department employed crisis intervention protocols designed for mental health emergencies. Deputies prioritized de-escalation tactics, creating time and distance while maintaining communication opportunities before tactfully disengaging while continuing to monitor the situation. Hilton was subsequently transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.
Booker and Hilton have maintained their professional partnership through "The Perez Hilton Podcast with Chris Booker" for more than a decade. The program focuses on entertainment industry developments and breaking news analysis.
Regarding the future of their collaborative work, Booker indicated uncertainty while emphasizing that health remains the primary concern.
"It's all TBD at the moment as our collective focus is on his health. I certainly hope to continue [the podcast and Patreon] with my friend when the time is appropriate," Booker stated. "I will give updates there when the time is right. We've done these shows for over a decade now and the support from our listeners has been resounding."
Booker directed supporters to check Hilton's website for any official updates regarding his condition and concluded his message with words of encouragement.
"[Perez] is very loved. I can only hope he feels it. Heal up friend," Booker wrote.
On Wednesday, Hilton's agent Dante Rusciolelli confirmed that the blogger's team remains focused on his health, recovery, and maintaining privacy for both Hilton and his family during this difficult period.
Hilton's family issued their own statement acknowledging the widespread concern and expressing gratitude for the support they have received.
"Many of you have reached out with concern for Perez, and we are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of love, support, and prayers. We can confirm that Perez is receiving medical care, and our family's focus right now is on his well-being," the family stated. "We kindly ask that you respect Perez's privacy, as well as the privacy of his family, during this difficult time. If and when we are able to share any updates, we will do so with everyone as soon as we can. Thank you for your compassion, understanding, and continued support."
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
About the Author
Ava Hart
Ava Hart is a pop culture junkie and loves to share what's happening in Hollywood and what trends are taking the world by storm.
