Perez Hilton (born March 23, 1978), born Mario Armando Lavandeira Jr., is an American blogger, columnist, and media personality. He is best known for his celebrity gossip blog, which features tabloid photos with his own captions or doodles. His blog has sparked controversy for its tone, outing alleged closeted celebrities, and influencing media coverage of celebrities.
Beyond blogging, Hilton has written four books, hosts a podcast with Chris Booker, runs two YouTube channels, and has appeared in films, TV shows, and off-Broadway productions. In 2018, he was named “the original celebrity social media influencer.”
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Table of Contents
Perez Hilton Net Worth
Perez Hilton has a net worth of $20 million. At its peak in 2007, PerezHilton.com generated significant ad revenue, charging up to $45,000 per week for premium ads. He declined a $50 million offer to sell the site.
In 2009, Hilton purchased a West Hollywood villa for $2 million, later listing it for $2.9 million in 2016. In 2015, he bought a Mid-City LA home for $2.9 million, listing it for $4.2 million in 2023. He relocated to Manhattan in 2013.
Early life
Perez Hilton was born in Miami, Florida, to Cuban parents. He grew up in Little Havana and Westchester, Florida, and attended Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, an all-boys Catholic school in Miami, graduating in 1996. An aspiring actor, he earned a scholarship to New York University, where he pursued his passion for performing arts and media.
Career
After graduating from New York University in 2000, Perez Hilton pursued acting but shifted to blogging, working with publications like GLAAD and Instinct magazine. He launched his personal blog, originally named PageSixSixSix.com, focusing on celebrity gossip rather than personal stories.
Within six months, it was dubbed “Hollywood’s most hated website” by The Insider, quickly gaining popularity. Renamed PerezHilton.com, inspired by his favorite celebrity Paris Hilton, Lavandeira adopted the pen name Perez Hilton. The blog became influential, with celebrities on his “good side” receiving positive coverage and praise.
Personal life
In 2013, Perez Hilton moved to Manhattan, saying it was where he and his growing family wanted to live. His first child, Mario Armando Lavandeira III, was born on February 17, 2013, via surrogate. His daughters, Mia Alma Lavandeira and Mayte Amor, were born on May 9, 2015, and October 4, 2017, respectively, also through surrogates.
In April 2018, Hilton faced criticism for stating he hoped his son would be heterosexual, as it would be “easier.” He also expressed reluctance to enroll his son in dance classes, fearing it might influence his sexuality.
Why was Perez Hilton permanently banned from TikTok?
Hilton faced a permanent ban from TikTok for multiple violations of community guidelines, a move that underscored the controversies that often follow his online presence.
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Conclusion
Perez Hilton’s journey from a hopeful actor to a celebrity gossip magnate has been anything but ordinary. His blend of candid commentary, relentless pursuit of celebrity news, and entrepreneurial spirit has earned him a fortune as well as a notorious reputation. Love him or hate him, Hilton’s impact on the way we consume celebrity news is undeniable.
FAQs about Perez Hilton’s Net Worth
- How did Perez Hilton earn his net worth?
Perez Hilton earned his net worth primarily through his highly trafficked gossip blog, book deals, media appearances, and his ventures in podcasting and YouTube. - Has Perez Hilton’s wealth been affected by controversies?
While controversies have been a constant in Hilton’s career, his ability to stay relevant and maintain his audience has allowed his net worth to grow despite the backlash he’s often faced. - What are Perez Hilton’s main sources of income?
Apart from his blog, Hilton’s main sources of income include advertising revenue, his books, television and film appearances, and his social media presence across various platforms. - How has Perez Hilton’s career evolved over the years?
Hilton’s career has evolved from blogging to include writing books, hosting a podcast, engaging with fans on social media, and even participating in off-Broadway shows. - Is Perez Hilton’s net worth likely to increase in the future?
Given Hilton’s knack for adapting to new media trends and expanding his brand, it’s possible his net worth could continue to grow as he finds new ways to monetize his content and influence.
