TikTok have addressed their delayed removal of Perez Hilton’s disturbing livestream showing footage of self-harm.
The celebrity blogger was hospitalised on Tuesday (August 4) after Hilton streamed himself hurting himself on TikTok. Local law enforcement was called to Hilton’s home following several emergency calls made by viewers.
The Miami-Dade sheriff’s office have confirmed that Hilton had been safely transported and is currently receiving medical attention.
Now, following criticisms of TikTok for not taking down the livestream quickly enough, the streaming platform has responded.
A spokesperson has told FOX Business that a moderator error was the cause of the delay, despite the livestream being flagged within minutes.
They added that they immediately alerted police as the livestream violated the platform’s Community Guidelines. Clips from the livestream were also taken down within 90 seconds, TikTok claim, with Hilton’s account also being banned.
Since the livestream, Hilton’s family have spoken out shared on his personal website yesterday (August 5).
“Many of you have reached out with concern for Perez, and we are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of love, support, and prayers,” they wrote (as per People).
“Our family’s focus right now is on his well-being,” Hilton’s family added. “We kindly ask that you respect Perez’s privacy, as well as the privacy of his family, during this difficult time. If and when we are able to share any updates, we will do so with everyone as soon as we can. Thank you for your compassion, understanding, and continued support.”
