Presley Gerber, model and son of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, died at 27 from an apparent overdose at a Santa Monica rehab facility on September 20. Sources say he checked into treatment that same weekend, telling people he knew he needed help. Now his parents are reportedly facing an impossible task: planning an intimate Malibu memorial while grieving their son, with sources describing the decisions as emotionally overwhelming.
The couple wants the service completely private, with no media or paparazzi, but so many people in Presley’s life have reached out asking to attend that the family is wrestling with a guest list they never wanted to write. Presley was cremated, and his ashes will stay at the family’s Malibu home. One insider shut down the narrative that this was a case of famous parents who weren’t present, saying Cindy and Rande were always there for him and did everything they could to help. His sister Kaia, 25, was extremely close to her brother and is said to be taking the loss very hard.
His death is also renewing a conversation about addiction and the stigma that keeps so many people from reaching out before it’s too late. If you or someone you love is struggling, the SAMHSA helpline is 1-800-662-HELP (4357), free and confidential, available 24/7. What are some ways you’ve supported a friend going through addiction or a tough mental health moment? Let us know in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.