Kathy Hilton Steps Down as Grand Marshal of West Hollywood Pride Parade Following Community Concerns

Kathy Hilton will not be serving as grand marshal for this year's West Hollywood Pride Parade following pushback from members of the LGBTQ+ community.

The 67-year-old announced her withdrawal on Wednesday, June 3, just four days ahead of the celebration, which takes place Sunday, June 7 along Santa Monica Boulevard between Crescent Heights Boulevard and San Vicente Boulevard.

In a statement, Hilton expressed gratitude for the initial consideration. "I am honored to have been considered for this recognition and appreciative of the support I have received from members of the community throughout the years," she said. "My reason for wanting to be involved in this year's WeHo Pride weekend was simple: to celebrate, support, and share in the joy of a community that means a great deal to so many people."

Hilton emphasized that Pride remains fundamentally about honoring LGBTQ+ voices and achievements. "Pride is, and always will be, about celebrating and uplifting LGBTQ+ voices, experiences, and achievements," she noted.

She highlighted her long history of supporting LGBTQ+ organizations, pointing to her involvement with GLAAD initiatives, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation since its start, Dr. Mathilde Krim, God's Love We Deliver, and Project Angel Food. "I respect the thoughtful conversations that have taken place and remain deeply committed to supporting LGBTQ+ causes and visibility," Hilton added.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star also recalled a meaningful past experience: "This monumentally important event has always had a special place in my heart, and I will always cherish the experience I had acting as Grand Marshal of the LA Pride parade with my daughter in 2005."

When West Hollywood officials initially announced Hilton's appointment, they characterized her as "a vocal and visible supporter of the community" who had used her platform to champion LGBTQ+ rights. However, the decision quickly drew criticism, with community members questioning her track record and citing her family's past friendship with Donald Trump. Additionally, some referenced an accusation that Hilton used a homophobic slur toward a DJ during RHOBH filming in Aspen in 2022—a claim she has firmly denied.

In response to her withdrawal, the City of West Hollywood and WeHo Pride organizers released their own statement: "The City of West Hollywood and WeHo Pride Parade organizers thank Kathy Hilton for her grace and her continued support of the LGBTQ+ community."

The organizers underscored the importance of community input in shaping the event. "Pride has always been strongest when it genuinely reflects the community. WeHo Pride is strengthened by open dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to inclusion," they said.

They also outlined their broader vision for the celebration. "The City of West Hollywood remains dedicated to ensuring that WeHo Pride continues to be a joyful celebration rooted in visibility, belonging, and respect, and welcomes ongoing community conversations that help it to evolve while honoring its history and purpose."

The parade is set to feature nearly 120 entries this year. At present, no replacement grand marshal has been announced.