Credit: Faye’s Vision/Cover Images
Kathy Hilton will not be honored as Grand Marshal Icon for the WeHo Pride Parade 2026 after pushback from the community. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star then shared her reaction.
Amid the announcement, TMZ reported that Kathy has received backlash over her purported ties to President Donald Trump‘s Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, and castmate Erika Jayne‘s allegation that she used a homophobic slur on a cast trip to Colorado. Kathy denied using the slur.
According to a statement from the City of West Hollywood, Kathy is no longer serving as WeHo Pride Parade 2026’s Grand Marshal Icon, following pushback in the WeHo community.
Apparently, there was a debate about Kathy being named the honoree, and this led to her exit.
“The City of West Hollywood has always believed that Pride belongs to the community,” read the statement from the city. “Since its earliest days, Pride has served as both a celebration and a platform for activism, visibility, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality, dignity, and justice for LGBTQ+ people.”
“The announcement of Kathy Hilton as Grand Marshal Icon for the 2026 WeHo Pride Parade has generated a range of perspectives across our community,” the statement continued. “In recent days, community members have shared thoughtful feedback regarding the role and significance of Pride honorees.”
According to the statement, the dialogue reflected the “passion” people have for WeHo Pride.
“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 declared.
In the statement, Kathy herself reacted.
“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,” she said in the statement. “I respect the thoughtful conversations that have taken place and remain deeply committed to supporting LGBTQ+ causes and visibility.”
The City of West Hollywood added in the statement, “Pride has always been strongest when it genuinely reflects the community. WeHo Pride is strengthened by open dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to inclusion.”