Socialite and businesswoman Paris Hilton has declared that the intense media scrutiny and 'cruel' treatment she faced as a young woman in the early 2000s would not be tolerated in today's climate. The 44-year-old described the experience as feeling like harassment, used for public entertainment.
From 'Harassment' to Advocacy: A Shift in Public Scrutiny
In an interview with the Press Association, Hilton reflected on the peak of her fame during the reality series The Simple Life. "Back then the media was so cruel to myself and to a few other women and it just felt like harassment," she stated. She believes public attitudes have evolved, noting, "the things that people would say to us would not be accepted today."
While acknowledging positive change, Hilton cautioned that progress is incomplete. "I think it has changed a lot but I can see that some people just haven’t got that memo and are continuing it," she observed. "There definitely needs to be work done but at least it is evolving in a more positive way for people."
The 'Dumb Blonde' Armour and a Hidden Past
Hilton has frequently addressed the 'dumb blonde' label that defined her early public image, revealing it was a deliberate construct. She explained this persona acted as "an armour and a shield" to protect herself from delving into past traumas she was not ready to confront.
Her 2020 documentary, This Is Paris, unveiled the physical and psychological abuse she suffered as a teenager at boarding schools for troubled teens. This revelation marked a turning point, transforming her into a vocal activist campaigning against the US 'troubled teen industry'.
Now, she says her relationship with her famous character has shifted. "Now I kind of pull out the character sometimes, not as a protection, more as just the silly fun side of me," Hilton said. "People know that it is a character, I love that people know that there is a lot more to me than that."
Motherhood: The Catalyst for Continued Change
Now a mother to two young children with husband Carter Reum, Hilton describes parenthood as her "greatest joy". This new chapter has intensified her drive for systemic reform, particularly in child welfare.
"Being a mother, I’m so protective and I think that’s another reason why I use my voice so much, especially having a daughter," she explained. "I don’t ever want her to feel the way that I did or to go through the things that I went through."
Her advocacy work continues alongside her career in entertainment. Hilton's new project, a documentary titled Infinite Icon: A Visual Memoir which charts her return to music, is scheduled for release on 30 January.
