Kathy Hilton recently stepped down as grand marshal icon honoree of the WeHo Pride parade after backlash over her rumored political leanings. Now, days later, her “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” costar Jennifer Tilly is coming to her defense, calling her one of the biggest LGBTQ+ advocates she knows.
This comes after Hilton spoke about the last-minute change in a recent interview.
Credit: Eric Kowalsky / MEGA
Tilly took to her official Instagram account on June 5 not only to post a photo of herself with Hilton but also to make her stance known on the WeHo Pride situation. The “Chucky” star began her caption, “I stand with Kathy.”
After that, she went on to discuss Hilton’s advocacy, writing, “Nobody works harder and more tirelessly to give back to the community than @kathyhilton. She has repeatedly opened her home, her heart, and her pocketbook for LGBTQ+ causes.”
I’ve attended GLAAD award parties at her house, her annual Children’s Hospital event at the Abbey, and she has been a longtime supporter of @projectangelfood. Kathy is an ally and an advocate.”
Fans Aren’t Too Keen On Jennifer Tilly’s Defense
Following Tilly’s defense of her friend, many on social media are reacting. While some can understand the actress wanting to stand up for Hilton, others feel the community should have a say in who serves as the grand marshal for one of the world’s largest pride parades.
One person said, “Love this, but it’s odd. LGBTQIA people who she might’ve offended are the ones for whom forgiveness & grace matter. Not yours.”
Someone else said, “Doesn’t make any difference what she does if she votes against all of her activism in the booths.” A different Instagram user wrote, “Ooof! Nope! If she votes for people who strip the community of its rights, she isn’t an ally.”
Kathy Hilton Recently Explained Why She Stepped Down
TMZ interviewed Hilton on June 4 following the Hermes fashion show in Los Angeles. The interviewer mentioned the situation with the pride parade, saying she was sorry the “RHOBH” friend had been “let go.”
Hilton said, “You know, I’ve been involved with the community for a long, long time, and when people make some noise, what can you do?” She continued, “So, I made a statement.”
After that, Hilton mentioned the support she’s shown the community, dating back to the 1980s. Still, regarding the parade, she said, “I want them to have the best day, and they have my support.”
When asked if she considered the backlash to be “unfair,” the 67-year-old said, “you don’t want to be somewhere if it’s going to..” Hilton didn’t finish her sentence as they were driving away. However, she made a hand motion, signaling that she didn’t want to cause drama for anyone who didn’t want her at WeHo Pride.
The City Of West Hollywood And WeHo Pride’s Joint Statement
Hilton’s decision to step down as the grand marshal icon honoree of the WeHo Pride parade was announced via a joint statement on June 3 from the City of West Hollywood and WeHo Pride. They stated that after “thoughtful discussion,” it had been mutually decided upon that the “RHOBH” star would not retain the position for the 2026 parade.
They said, “The announcement of Kathy Hilton as Grand Marshal Icon for the 2026 WeHo Pride Parade has generated a range of perspectives across our community. In recent days, community members have shared thoughtful feedback regarding the role and significance of Pride honorees.” This year, there won’t be a Grand Marshal Icon honoree.
She also released a statement, saying, “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. 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.”
Kathy Is Currently Being Sued
In addition to stepping down as grand marshal, Hilton is also facing a lawsuit. According to TMZ, a woman who visited her home for a 2024 charity event suffered a fall while at the residence due to uneven concrete. The fall caused various injuries, including to one of her knees.
Since the filing, Hilton has denied all wrongdoing. Per the outlet, her legal team feels that the woman’s injuries were a result of her exposing herself to “known danger.” Regarding the alleged victim, the woman is seeking over $50k a year for future medical needs related to the fall.
