Daily News 19

Tag: Mental health advocacy

  • Presley Gerber’s Ex-Girlfriend Speaks Out for First Time Following His Death at 27

    Presley Gerber’s Ex-Girlfriend Speaks Out for First Time Following His Death at 27

    Key Highlights

    • Presley Gerber, 27, son of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, died Sunday at a rehabilitation facility; the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner is investigating a suspected overdose.
    • Ex-girlfriend Charlotte D’Alessio posted emotional tributes on Instagram, expressing anger and grief, while Brooklyn Peltz Beckham and Paris Hilton also shared public condolences.
    • Gerber had spoken publicly about his battles with depression and substance abuse, and sister Kaia Gerber recently detailed the family’s decade-long struggle with his addiction in Vogue.

    Model Presley Gerber Dies at 27; Medical Examiner Investigates Suspected Overdose

    Presley Gerber, the 27-year-old model and son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, passed away on Sunday, September 20, at a rehabilitation facility in Los Angeles. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner (DME), the cause of death is being investigated as a suspected overdose. A source told The Sun that officers at the scene attempted life-saving measures before Gerber was pronounced dead, and no foul play is suspected.

    Charlotte D’Alessio Leads Tributes from Former Partner and Celebrity Friends

    Charlotte D’Alessio, a 28-year-old Canadian model who dated Gerber for approximately two years beginning in 2018, shared a series of emotional posts to her Instagram Stories over the weekend. D’Alessio posted a video of Gerber running along the water with a small dog, captioning it as the way she “will always remember him.” In a subsequent image showing the pair looking into each other’s eyes in bathing suits, she wrote: “Shared a pure love with you & for that I thank & honour your life. You deserved more time. You deserved more life. Very angry ab this.” On a black-and-white photo of the two embracing, she added: “Love u Pres. Always. Up there, down here. don’t ever doubt that. We all love you so much. I hope you can feel it.”

    Brooklyn Peltz Beckham also took to Instagram Stories, writing: “Presley you were the kindest and we are going to miss you so much. We love you.” Paris Hilton remembered Gerber as a “beautiful soul” in her own tribute, stating: “I’m completely heartbroken. I still can’t believe this is real. I cared about you so much and I’m going to miss you more than words can say. I’ll always cherish the memories we shared – the laughs, the conversations and just being around you. You had such a gentle heart and there was something so special about you that anyone who was lucky enough to know you could feel. I hope you knew how deeply loved you were and how many people cared about you. My heart is with your entire family during this unimaginable time. Rest in peace, my friend. Love you forever.”

    Gerber’s Public Advocacy for Mental Health and Sobriety

    Gerber had been open about his struggles with depression and substance abuse in recent years. Speaking on the podcast Studio 22 in 2023, he said: “Having struggled with mental health, depression and some other things that come along with that, I think that whether I help one person or 100 people get out of that place that I was in at one point in my life, that’s all I need to do. (Mental health) is an issue. It is such a big part of my life. It’s a 24/7 job and there’s so much to it. That’s really what I want to do: help people, whether you’re depressed, you’re struggling with something that is having a negative effect on your body. I mean it could be anything, and there’s no judgment.”

    Sister Kaia Gerber Details Family’s Decade-Long Struggle

    The depth of the family’s experience was further illuminated by Presley’s younger sister, model and actress Kaia Gerber, in the September 2026 issue of Vogue. Kaia spoke candidly about her brother’s “decade-long struggle with drug addiction” and its impact on the family dynamic. She said: “When something like that happens in a family, it kind of levels everyone. I think that’s also why I started to self-identify as the easy one and never wanted to ask for help. Because it felt like too much to have two children who were needing. My parents for most of our lives were very, very private and didn’t share anything — and now we have this absolute teacher, my brother, who says: ‘I’m gonna be very human for everyone’. There’s only so much you can hide from the world. And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you’re ashamed of them.”

    Why This Matters

    The death of Presley Gerber underscores the ongoing crisis of substance abuse and mental health challenges among young adults, even those with access to significant resources and support systems. His public willingness to discuss his struggles — and his family’s subsequent openness, particularly Kaia Gerber’s recent Vogue interview — reflects a shifting cultural conversation that destigmatizes addiction and treats it as a chronic health condition rather than a moral failing. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s ongoing investigation will determine the official cause and manner of death, which may provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding his passing at a treatment facility. The outpouring of grief from high-profile figures across fashion and entertainment highlights the personal impact of a young man who sought to use his platform to help others facing similar battles.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How old was Presley Gerber when he died?
    Presley Gerber was 27 years old at the time of his death on Sunday, September 20.
    What was the reported cause of death?
    The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner is investigating his death as a suspected overdose. No foul play is suspected, and officers reportedly attempted life-saving measures at the rehabilitation facility where he was staying.
    Had Presley Gerber spoken publicly about his struggles before his death?
    Yes. In a 2023 appearance on the Studio 22 podcast, Gerber discussed his battles with depression and substance abuse, stating that helping others escape similar darkness was his primary goal. His sister Kaia Gerber also detailed his “decade-long struggle with drug addiction” in a September 2026 Vogue interview.
  • Presley Gerber Shares Addiction, Health Struggles Before Death

    Presley Gerber Shares Addiction, Health Struggles Before Death

    Key Highlights

    • Presley Gerber, son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, is reported to have died tragically after establishing a notable runway modeling career.
    • Beyond fashion, Gerber had sought to distinguish himself as a role model through dedicated mental health advocacy work.
    • The loss cuts short a trajectory that blended high-profile modeling success with a stated mission to destigmatize mental health struggles.

    Runway Success and a Pivot to Purpose

    Presley Gerber entered the fashion industry with a formidable pedigree but quickly proved his own staying power on the catwalk. The son of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber walked for major houses including Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino, and Valentino, securing a reputation as a reliable and sought-after presence during fashion weeks in Milan, Paris, and New York. His early career was defined by the sharp tailoring and androgynous aesthetic favored by contemporary menswear designers, earning him editorial spreads in Vogue, GQ, and L’Officiel Hommes. Yet, even as his portfolio expanded, associates noted a growing restlessness with the purely aesthetic demands of the profession.

    Advocacy Born from Personal Experience

    In recent interviews and social media posts, Gerber spoke candidly about his own battles with anxiety and the pressures of growing up in the public eye. He articulated a desire to leverage his platform for something more substantive than brand campaigns, telling followers he wanted to be “a different kind of model—a role model.” This ambition manifested in partnerships with mental health organizations and a willingness to discuss therapy, medication, and the nonlinear nature of recovery in an industry that often prizes perfection. His advocacy focused on reaching young men, a demographic historically reluctant to seek help, positioning vulnerability as a form of strength rather than weakness.

    An Industry Voice Silenced

    The news of Gerber’s death has reverberated through both the fashion and mental health communities, where he was increasingly seen as a bridge between two worlds that rarely intersect. Designers who booked him for his look now mourn the loss of his voice, while advocates cite the tragedy as a grim reminder that public success and private healing do not always run parallel. Tributes from peers highlight a young man who used his final public appearances to check in on friends and promote crisis resources, underscoring the sincerity of a mission that was, by all accounts, only beginning to scale.

    Why This Matters

    Gerber’s reported passing underscores the fragile intersection of celebrity, mental health, and the fashion industry’s relentless pace. His trajectory—from hereditary fame to independent professional respect to vocal advocacy—mirrored a broader shift in modeling where influence is increasingly measured by authenticity rather than mere visibility. The circumstances also reignite urgent conversations about the support structures available to young talents in high-pressure creative fields, where the demand for constant performance can exacerbate underlying conditions. As the industry processes this loss, the focus turns to whether his stated goal of normalizing mental health discourse will outlive him through the initiatives and conversations he championed.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who was Presley Gerber?

    Presley Gerber was an American fashion model, the eldest child of supermodel Cindy Crawford and entrepreneur Rande Gerber. He built an independent career walking runways for top luxury brands and appearing in major fashion publications.

    What mental health advocacy work did he pursue?

    Gerber spoke openly about his personal struggles with anxiety, partnered with mental health organizations, and used his social media platform to encourage young men to seek therapy and support, framing vulnerability as strength.

    How has the fashion industry responded to the news?

    Designers, fellow models, and industry publications have shared tributes emphasizing his professional dedication and the sincerity of his advocacy, noting the loss of a voice that bridged high fashion and mental health awareness.

  • Cindy Crawford Praised ‘warrior son’ Months Before His Tragic Death at 27

    Cindy Crawford Praised ‘warrior son’ Months Before His Tragic Death at 27

    Key Highlights

    • Presley Gerber, son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, died at age 27 at a rehabilitation facility on Sunday, 20 September, per the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
    • The family confirmed the death through representative Allie Jenkins, requesting privacy during “this very difficult and painful time”; no cause of death has been disclosed.
    • Gerber was a working model and vocal mental health advocate who had publicly documented his recovery from substance abuse and depression, most recently sharing his progress in December 2024.

    Model and Mental Health Advocate Presley Gerber Dies at 27

    Presley Gerber, the eldest child of supermodel Cindy Crawford and entrepreneur Rande Gerber, passed away on Sunday, 20 September, at a rehabilitation facility in Los Angeles. He was 27 years old. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed the death, and a statement released by family representative Allie Jenkins to the BBC conveyed the family’s request for privacy. “The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time,” Jenkins said. Authorities have not released a cause of death.

    Runway Career and High-Profile Campaigns

    Gerber made his runway debut as a teenager and quickly established a modeling portfolio that included campaigns for major fashion houses such as Burberry, Bottega Veneta, Moschino, Celine, Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, and Pepsi. He appeared on the cover of Vogue, following in the footsteps of his younger sister, Kaia Gerber, who has built her own career as a model and actress known for roles in American Horror Story, Saturday Night, and The Shards. The siblings frequently appeared together at industry events, reflecting a family legacy rooted in fashion; their mother remains one of the most recognizable supermodels in history, while their father co-founded the spirits brand Casamigos alongside actor George Clooney.

    Public Advocacy for Mental Health and Sobriety

    In recent years, Gerber used his platform to speak candidly about his struggles with substance abuse and mental health. During a 2023 appearance on the Studio 22 podcast, he articulated a mission to help others facing similar battles: “Having struggled with mental health, depression and some other things that come along with that, I think that whether I help one person or a hundred people get out of that place that I was in at one point in my life, that’s all I need to do.”

    In a poignant Instagram post shared in December 2024, Gerber detailed how exercise and abstaining from alcohol had aided his recovery. He expressed a desire to surround himself with positive influences, stating, “As I’ve grown up in Hollywood, there’s a lot of people around me that I love to death, but right now I try not to be around them.” He further explained his dual motivation for sharing his journey: “A. So you feel like you’re not alone, because that is how I feel most of the time and I have a feeling that if I say all of this, a lot of people will at least know that there’s someone else going through it,” he said. “And the second thing is, hopefully I find some people out here and are willing to help or know someone that can help.”

    Family Tributes Highlight Resilience and Pride

    Gerber’s family publicly celebrated his progress in the months leading up to his death. In March 2025, Cindy Crawford commented on one of his Instagram posts, dubbing him a “warrior”: “You are a warrior! Walked thru the fire to find yourself! So proud!” Kaia Gerber added, “That’s my brother. I am so damn proud.” Rande Gerber echoed the sentiment, writing, “I’m so proud of you and your courage. Facing what’s hard takes real strength and watching you find your way back to yourself is everything. I love you so much.”

    Why This Matters

    Presley Gerber’s death underscores the ongoing vulnerability of individuals navigating recovery from substance use disorders, even when supported by strong family networks and professional treatment. His public advocacy brought visibility to the intersection of mental health and addiction, particularly within the high-pressure environment of the entertainment and fashion industries. The Gerber family’s openness about his journey—and their expressions of pride in his resilience—may encourage others to seek help and reduce stigma. As the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner continues its investigation, the broader conversation about accessible, long-term support for young adults in recovery remains critically relevant.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What was Presley Gerber’s cause of death?
    The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has not disclosed a cause of death. The family has requested privacy.
    How did Presley Gerber advocate for mental health?
    Gerber spoke publicly about his struggles with depression and substance abuse, notably on the Studio 22 podcast in 2023 and via Instagram in December 2024, where he shared his recovery progress and encouraged others to seek support.
    Who are Presley Gerber’s parents and sister?
    His parents are supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, co-founder of Casamigos. His sister is model and actress Kaia Gerber.
  • Former Knicks Star Michael Sweetney Dies at 43; Wife Delivers Emotional Tribute

    Former Knicks Star Michael Sweetney Dies at 43; Wife Delivers Emotional Tribute

    Key Highlights

    • Former New York Knicks forward and Georgetown standout Michael Sweetney died at age 43 on September 17, 2024, as announced by his wife, India Sweetney.
    • Sweetney was the No. 9 overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, averaging 18.2 points and 9.2 rebounds over three seasons at Georgetown before playing four NBA seasons with the Knicks and Chicago Bulls.
    • Beyond basketball, Sweetney became a mental health advocate after speaking publicly about depression and grief following his father’s death, later serving as an assistant coach at Yeshiva University starting in 2019.

    Wife India Sweetney Shares Intimate Tribute to Husband of Nearly Two Decades

    Michael Sweetney’s death at 43 has reverberated across the basketball world, but the most personal reflections came from the woman who knew him long before Madison Square Garden, the NBA Draft, or the weight of lottery-pick expectations. His wife, India Sweetney, announced his passing on Thursday, September 17, in an emotional message that centered on the husband, father, and friend behind the former New York Knicks forward.

    “With the heaviest hearts, we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Michael,” she wrote. “To know @mikesweetney was to love him.”

    India Sweetney described their bond as spanning 30 years as best friends and nearly two decades of marriage. She emphasized that their children “were the light of his life” and offered a sweeping characterization of his role within their family.

    “He was the best son, brother, family member, friend, father and husband ANYONE could ask for,” she wrote.

    Georgetown Dominance Led to Lottery Selection by the Knicks

    Long before his professional career, Sweetney built a reputation at Georgetown University as one of the most productive big men in college basketball. Across three seasons with the Hoyas, he averaged 18.2 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. His junior year saw a significant leap in production to 22.8 points and 10.4 rebounds per contest, cementing his status as a highly regarded prospect.

    The New York Knicks selected Sweetney with the ninth overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft—a class remembered for its depth and star power. He spent two seasons in New York before being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2005 as part of the deal that sent Eddy Curry and Antonio Davis to the Knicks. Sweetney played two seasons in Chicago and concluded his NBA career with averages of 6.5 points and 4.5 rebounds across 233 games.

    Post-Playing Career Defined by Mental Health Advocacy and Coaching

    Sweetney’s impact extended well beyond his on-court statistics. After his playing career continued overseas, he transitioned into coaching, including a role as an assistant coach at Yeshiva University beginning in 2019. Perhaps more significantly, he spoke candidly about his struggles with depression and the grief he endured after his father’s death, using his platform to encourage more open conversations about mental health in sports.

    That willingness to address difficult personal periods became an integral part of how he was viewed after basketball. The Knicks organization also paid tribute to their former first-round pick following the news.

    “Michael was an incredible person who will be missed by many,” the team said.

    Why This Matters

    Michael Sweetney’s passing at 43 underscores the often-overlooked human dimension behind professional athletes whose careers are frequently reduced to draft position and statistical output. Selected ninth overall in a draft class that included LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh, Sweetney faced immediate pressure to perform for the Knicks franchise at the World’s Most Famous Arena. While his NBA numbers—6.5 points and 4.5 rebounds over four seasons—may not reflect lottery-pick expectations, his Georgetown resume (22.8 points and 10.4 rebounds as a junior) confirms his elite collegiate talent.

    More importantly, Sweetney’s post-career advocacy for mental health awareness in sports represents a growing and critical movement. By speaking openly about depression and paternal grief, he helped normalize vulnerability among male athletes in a culture that historically stigmatized such discussions. His transition to coaching at Yeshiva University also illustrates a commitment to mentorship and development beyond personal achievement. The contrast between the public perception of Sweetney as a “draft bust” and the private reality described by his wife—a devoted father of 30-year friendship and nearly 20-year marriage—highlights the gap between athletic evaluation and human worth.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When did Michael Sweetney die and how was the news announced?

    Michael Sweetney died on Thursday, September 17, 2024, at age 43. The news was announced by his wife, India Sweetney, via an emotional social media message describing him as her best friend of 30 years and husband of nearly two decades.

    What were Michael Sweetney’s career highlights at Georgetown and in the NBA?

    At Georgetown, Sweetney averaged 18.2 points and 9.2 rebounds over three seasons, peaking at 22.8 points and 10.4 rebounds as a junior. He was selected No. 9 overall by the New York Knicks in the 2003 NBA Draft and played four NBA seasons (two with the Knicks, two with the Chicago Bulls), averaging 6.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in 233 games.

    What did Michael Sweetney do after his playing career?

    After playing overseas, Sweetney moved into coaching, serving as an assistant coach at Yeshiva University beginning in 2019. He also became a mental health advocate, speaking publicly about his experiences with depression and grief following his father’s death to encourage more open dialogue about mental health in sports.

  • Lili Reinhart Shares Stunning Photos to Celebrate Her 30th Birthday

    Lili Reinhart Shares Stunning Photos to Celebrate Her 30th Birthday

    Lili Reinhart Celebrates 30th Birthday: A Look Back at the Actress’s Career Milestones

    Lili Reinhart officially entered a new decade on September 13, marking her 30th birthday. The Riverdale star and accomplished author has spent her twenties navigating global fame, advocating for mental health awareness, and establishing herself as a multifaceted creative force in Hollywood.

    From ‘Riverdale’ Breakout to Bestselling Author

    Reinhart rose to prominence portraying Betty Cooper on The CW’s hit series Riverdale, a role she inhabited for seven seasons. The show’s massive international success turned the young cast into household names, with Reinhart’s portrayal of the determined, complex character earning critical praise and a dedicated fanbase.

    Beyond acting, Reinhart channeled her personal experiences into writing. Her 2020 poetry collection, Swimming Lessons: Poems, debuted as a New York Times bestseller. The book offered raw, candid reflections on anxiety, depression, heartbreak, and healing—topics she has discussed openly in interviews and across her social platforms to destigmatize mental health struggles.

    Advocacy and Entrepreneurial Ventures

    Reinhart has leveraged her platform for advocacy, partnering with organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and speaking publicly about body positivity and the pressures of fame. In 2023, she launched Personal Day, a skincare line focused on gentle, effective formulations for sensitive and acne-prone skin—a venture born from her own dermatological journey.

    A Milestone Year Ahead

    As she turns 30, Reinhart continues to expand her creative portfolio. She has produced and starred in independent films, including the psychological thriller Look Both Ways (2022), and remains selective about roles that challenge her range. Fans and industry observers alike anticipate her next chapter, whether on screen, on the page, or through her growing business endeavors.

    The milestone birthday arrives as Reinhart maintains a relatively private personal life while using her public voice to champion authenticity, resilience, and self-acceptance—messages that have resonated deeply with a generation coming of age alongside her.