Kaylah Walton
Paris Hilton, the world-renowned socialite, candidly discussed one of the most challenging periods of her life during a heartfelt chat with Louis Theroux at Spotify Beach in Cannes, France, during the 2025 Cannes Festival.
Hilton reminisced about the notorious sex tape leak involving her ex-boyfriend Rick Salomon, a betrayal she faced at the tender age of 19. This distressing episode plunged her into turmoil and sorrow, fundamentally altering her transition into adulthood.
Paris Hilton Reflects on Her Sex Tape: “It Was Excruciatingly Painful”
“It was the most excruciatingly painful experience I have ever encountered,” Hilton shared. “To put your trust in someone and have them share something so private with the world… it’s heartbreaking to be judged based on that moment with someone I confided in… this is something that will haunt me indefinitely.”
Now at 44, Paris reflects on that moment as a painful part of her past, one that significantly impacted her life both emotionally and professionally. She expressed the anguish of being thrust into the spotlight for such a personal issue, just before the debut of The Simple Life, the reality series that catapulted her to fame.
In her open discussion, Hilton noted that today, similar incidents would be classified as a crime in California if all parties did not consent.
Paris Discusses Donald Trump: A Shift in Views
In 2016, Hilton had declared her support for Donald Trump, citing their long-standing familial connection. However, over the years, her perspective appeared to change. In her memoir, she offered clarity, stating: “An old family friend, but I didn’t actually cast a vote.”
“I was only acquainted with him as a teenager in New York, which feels like ages ago,” she mentioned, clarifying her political position. When host Louis Theroux inquired about the “vibe” she remembered from Trump, if it was pleasant, friendly, or perhaps just a bit too tanned, Hilton chuckled and remarked, “He might have benefited from a fresh spray tan.”
“During that time, I felt incredibly mistreated by the media and public alike,” she continued. “It was utterly heartbreaking. I had put in so much effort and sought respect. Just when I was on the cusp of launching my reality series, this incident struck.”
