WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA — Kathy Hilton will no longer serve as the "grand marshal icon" at Sunday's WeHo Pride Parade in a move that followed concerns over Hilton's ties to President Donald Trump and allegations that she once used an anti-gay slur.
The decision was announced in a joint statement from Hilton and WeHo Pride organizers.
The selection of Hilton as the Grand Marshal Icon has "generated a range of perspectives across our community," organizers said. "In recent days, community members have shared thoughtful feedback regarding the role and significance of Pride honorees."
Organizers said those conversations highlighted the importance of ensuring that WeHo Pride continues to reflect the history, values and diverse voices of the LGBTQ+ community.
As a result, the city, organizers and Hilton mutually agreed that the 2026 WeHo Pride Parade will not designate a Grand Marshal Icon honoree, organizers said.
Hilton said she was grateful to have been considered for the recognition and emphasized her longstanding support for LGBTQ+ causes.
"I wanted to participate in this event to celebrate, support, and share in the joy of a community that means a great deal to so many people," Hilton said in a statement. "Pride is, and always will be, about celebrating and uplifting LGBTQ+ voices, experiences, and achievements."
She also pointed to her involvement with GLAAD initiatives and support for organizations including the Elton John AIDS Foundation, Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, God's Love We Deliver and Project Angel Food.
The city of West Hollywood had originally described Hilton as "a vocal and visible supporter of the community" whose public platform has helped champion LGBTQ+ rights, according to Us Weekly.
Much of the criticism surrounding Hilton's selection centered on her past social connections to President Donald Trump and his family, Us Weekly reported. Although Hilton has never publicly stated how she votes, she and her husband, Rick Hilton, have been photographed and socialized with the Trumps over the years.
Critics also resurfaced allegations stemming from a 2022 episode of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills." During that season's reunion special, cast member Erika Jayne claimed Hilton used a homophobic slur during an off-camera incident in Aspen, according to Us Weekly.
Bravo executive Andy Cohen said at the time that the network conducted an HR investigation into the allegation, but the inquiry was unable to reach a definitive conclusion because it came down to conflicting accounts, the magazine reported.
Hilton has repeatedly denied ever using a homophobic slur.
Despite stepping aside from the Pride honor, Hilton said her support for the LGBTQ+ community remains unchanged.
"My support for the community and WeHo Pride is unwavering," she said.
City News Service contributed to this report.
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