A Pride parade controversy that sparked backlash from LGBTQ+ groups has ended with Kathy Hilton stepping aside from a planned honorary role at the West Hollywood Pride Parade.
The City of West Hollywood announced Wednesday that Hilton will no longer serve as Grand Marshal Icon for the 2026 WeHo Pride event after weeks of criticism from some members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hilton said she respected the debate surrounding her selection.
“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,” Hilton said in a statement.
“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. Pride is, and always will be, about celebrating and uplifting LGBTQ+ voices, experiences, and achievements.”
The move comes after Indigenous Pride LA pulled out of the June 7 parade, arguing Hilton was the wrong choice to represent Pride.
“Many within our Two-Spirit, Indigiqueer, and Indigenous LGBTQPAI+ circles feel this year’s Grand Marshal choice does not align with the values, lived experiences, and spirit of Pride we seek to uplift,” the group wrote in an Instagram statement.
Other critics blasted Hilton on social media over her alleged political ties to President Donald Trump, with comments including “No Republicans at Pride” and “She is MAGA.”
Hilton had also faced renewed scrutiny over allegations from former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” co-star Erika Jayne, who claimed Hilton used a homophobic slur during a cast trip to Aspen. Hilton denied the allegation, while Jayne later said she “will never back down from the truth of what happened that night at the club in Aspen.”
In a statement released by the city, officials said Pride “has always been strongest when it genuinely reflects the community” and acknowledged that Hilton’s selection had “generated a range of perspectives across our community.”
“After thoughtful discussions, the City of West Hollywood, the WeHo Pride production team, and Kathy Hilton have determined that the 2026 WeHo Pride Parade will not designate a Grand Marshal Icon honoree,” the statement said.
Hilton added that she remains “deeply committed to supporting LGBTQ+ causes and visibility” and said her support for the community and WeHo Pride is “unwavering.”
The city thanked Hilton for her “grace” and said WeHo Pride would move forward without a Grand Marshal Icon designation, while welcoming nearly 120 parade entries for this year’s celebration.