RVM: What was your decision to move to Las Vegas, and how was it?
PH: In 2018, I had the incredible opportunity to be the special guest celebrity emcee for Chippendales for eight weeks, allowing me to live like a local in Las Vegas. This experience opened my eyes to the city’s unique lifestyle, such as the convenience of being home in just 15 minutes after work. Despite my wild past, I have grown to become more considerate, mature, and cautious with three children and my mother living with me. Moving to Vegas in January 2023 was a freeing and life-changing experience, breaking free from the fear that kept me in LA. I am grateful for the wonderful community in Las Vegas, where people are social and spontaneous. There’s no shortage of activities to enjoy, especially with children!
RVM: Did the move to Las Vegas go as you initially anticipated?
PH: NO!!! It was a real challenge to sell my home in LA, and I believe in being straightforward about it. At the same time, I was also managing the construction of a house in Las Vegas. It’s an experience that I won’t be repeating, but ultimately, everything turned out well, and I’m truly thankful for that.
RVM: How was your initial adjustment period after you moved here?
PH: So hard. Moving is tough, especially with kids! There’s so much to do – finding schools, doctors, dentists, and dealing with the DMV. Don’t even get me started on that lol. It took time, but seeing my kids happy in our new home made it all worth it. We love using our pool in Vegas, and we’re enjoying more family time together. Plus, eating out has become a favorite activity, especially with my mom.
RVM: Do you think most locals are aware or would be surprised to know that you have 3 amazing children and are a loving father?
PH: I don’t know if most locals know who I am. Vegas is a blank canvas and a fresh start for us! I even created a Vegas-specific Instagram handle, @lasvegasperez, for my Vegas audience.
RVM: Your kids are so adorable and resilient. How did they adjust to living in Las Vegas? How are they doing now, and are they enjoying It since the move?
PH: I am blessed to have happy, normal children! It’s great having happy children. We’ve been coming to Vegas every year since they were born. It makes me happy that they’re HAPPY!
RVM: How do you feel about life in Las Vegas now that you’ve been here for over a year? We know you mentioned how awesome traffic is lol, and it is. But please tell us more about the quality of life in Las Vegas vs. Los Angeles.
PH: Being in Las Vegas has truly been a game-changer! The REAL sense of community and strong values here are remarkable. LA doesn’t hold a candle to what Vegas has to offer. I appreciate that Vegas embraces both red and blue, just like I do. The vintage vibes in Vegas are so my style. It’s a city that exudes patriotism, and I love it. The locals here are always ready to lend a hand to the community – that’s the kind of environment I thrive in. I’m a huge fan of the people and the city! The city recognizes and rewards hard work. If you’re responsible and consistent, you’re bound to succeed here. Vegas locals are reliable and honest, just like me. Even with my friends, I always show up and honor my commitments. I’m all about emulating the successful individuals here, like Bill Hornbuckle. What an inspiring success story. OH, and I LOVE the heat. It beats the cold any day of the week.
RVM: You mentioned “the people and community,” which we know is awesome. Has life improved for you and the kids now that you’re settled?
PH: Yes, I am excited for the future! I am more focused on projects and things I am trying to manifest into reality. I am exploring a restaurant concept that I am passionate about and well-prepared for. I’m passionate and prepared with an intelligent concept, mission, and name menu items. In the future, I am looking to partner with an experienced restaurateur. I also have a great interest in having a show in Vegas and love being on stage. The decision to move to Vegas was well thought out. While some people may not like that Vegas is becoming Hollywood 2.0, I personally appreciate it. I am excited about the new studio coming to Summerlin with Sony and how Vegas keeps growing. I am happy with how things are, and I am eager for more opportunities! I have an exceptional work ethic and believe that the Las Vegas community and government are receptive to entrepreneurs and new local businesses.
RVM: Your mom is hysterical and so much fun. She has such a positive outlook and amazing energy. Yahoo News even wrote about her popularity. How is she adjusting to Las Vegas? She loves the casinos, lol.
PH: Mom loves Vegas. She’s happy here. Of course, as a mother, she is sad my sister chose to stay in LA, which I respect. But yes, she loves eating out and the slot machines!
RVM: Your love for your audience and their return love for you is apparent. Can you tell us more about your audience and what makes them so special to you?
PH: Yeah, I’ve dedicated 20 years to this work, and I’ve been fortunate to have a strong, loyal following. It’s difficult to express the depth of their support. The lifespan of an influencer is becoming shorter, but I continuously adapt to stay ahead of the latest trends. My “IT Girl” phase was in the past; I am now transitioning into my icon phase. It’s truly rewarding that even after two decades, people still value and listen to what I have to say. News Nation recently invited me onto their show, and I’m grateful for the ongoing support.
RVM: What would you tell people about “surviving” in life?
PH: The key to success is setting the bar low for survival, then waking up and taking action. While surviving is good, achieving happiness is even better. By putting in the hard work, doing the heavy lifting, and being fully present, you can observe what’s working and continue evolving. Last summer, I made a memorable appearance on the show “General Hospital,” where I arrived early and fully prepared. That is important for your career and feeling good about achieving something. Happiness is attainable through focus, discipline, and consistent effort. I believe in persevering and forging ahead. Throughout high school, I coasted and was lazy. However, now I’m the complete opposite and more hardworking than ever!
RVM: Why is working out so important for you?
PH: I’m vain, but it’s much deeper than just wanting to look good. It’s important for my mental health as well. I know what it takes for me to be healthy: to eat healthy and stay active. I love working out and knowing that early in the morning, I’ve already accomplished multiple things. I go to the gym and bring the kids to school without distractions. I do group fitness classes like boot camp or spin because that’s my jam.
RVM: You’re still in the spotlight after nearly 20 years, and we love your website and social media. How has it evolved since you started?
PH: I have been constantly evolving. At that time, I had no competition at all, NONE, not even from TMZ. Back then, celebrity magazines didn’t post breaking news about celebrities on their websites, and I did. It wasn’t easy, but the lack of competition helped me gain a lot of attention quickly. I continue to evolve on social media, through my podcast, website, daily live streaming, and other platforms. I also make TV appearances, act, host books, and focus on all these to ensure sustained success. Many people who found success only on YouTube are not around anymore. In 2014, they listed the top 10 mainstream YouTubers, and today, only one of those YouTubers is still relevant. I also love what I do, and entertaining people. In today’s environment, it’s important.
RVM: How would you compare nightlife in Las Vegas to nightlife in Los Angeles?
PH: Vegas is known for nightlife and service. LA is not. LA has last call about 1:30am. Personally, I prefer restaurants or once in a while a day club or a party brunch. Recently I had a friend in town and went to meet at the bar lounge about 11:30 and it was rough. Although I do like to dance.
I prefer Las Vegas for its nightlife and service, whereas Los Angeles is not as known for these. In LA, the last call is around 1:30 a.m. Personally, I enjoy going to restaurants and occasionally to a day club or a party brunch. Recently, when I met a friend at a bar lounge around 11:30 p.m., it was a bit rough because I have kids and a lot of responsibility, but I love to dance, so it was worth it.
RVM: What are some things we can expect to see from you in the near future or goals that you are planning to focus on?
PH: Collaborating with others in the community.
RVM: Lastly, what does a REAL day in the life of Perez Hilton in Las Vegas look like?
PH: I wake up early at 5:15 am so I can get to the gym by 6 am. Then, I go back home to take the kids to school and start a busy day. I create a lot of video content for social media. I’ve noticed that platforms like Facebook and Twitter tend to prioritize posts without links, photos, or videos to keep users engaged within their apps. So, I focus on creating more video content. I constantly check my direct messages and emails to see what’s trending. Even though I’m always busy and exhausted, I’m extremely grateful for everything I have. In the evenings, I enjoy supporting local talent. For example, I like going to shows in Vegas such as Magic Mike, Chippendales, Thunder from Down Under, and many others. I recently went to support Murray Sawchuck’s show, and I find it really enjoyable. Being a local, I appreciate the Las Vegas Strip, much like how some New Yorkers appreciate Times Square. I love the energy and atmosphere on the Las Vegas Strip, with all the tourists and people around.
RVM: It’s been a lot of fun interviewing you, Perez. Thank you so much for your time and incredible energy today.
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