Perez Hilton's sister details the harrowing moments of his August 4 self-harm incident

Key points

• Barbara Lavandeira stated that she found her brother, Mario Lavandeira Jr., in his bathroom with a box cutter and significant blood loss on August 4.
• Hilton had recently moved from Las Vegas to Miami and was struggling with depression, anxiety, and financial concerns following a severe illness in March.
• The family has requested privacy and is focusing on Hilton's lengthy recovery, which includes both physical healing and mental health treatment.
• Hilton's mother filed for temporary custody of his three children on August 7 while he remains in the hospital.
• Lavandeira emphasized that her brother has changed significantly since his early career and asked the public to respect the family's privacy during this difficult time.

Background

Perez Hilton, a former celebrity gossip blogger, was hospitalized in Florida under the Baker Act following a mental health crisis in August 2026. Earlier this year, he suffered a severe illness involving sepsis and a blood clot, which his family believes may have contributed to his current mental health struggles. He had recently relocated from Las Vegas to Miami to be closer to family, but faced financial and emotional challenges.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and Page Six both reported on Barbara Lavandeira's exclusive interview, highlighting her firsthand account of the incident. Both outlets emphasized the family's plea for privacy and the severity of Hilton's condition. Page Six noted that some sources believe his recent health issues triggered his mental health crisis, while NBC News focused on his history of depression and the family's efforts to support his recovery. Both sources agreed on the timeline of events and the family's request for privacy.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of mental health support and the impact of public scrutiny on individuals in the spotlight. It also underscores the need for privacy and support for families dealing with serious health crises.

What to watch

Hilton is expected to undergo a lengthy recovery process, including physical and mental health treatment. The family is focused on his well-being and the stability of his children, with his mother caring for them temporarily.