Authorities in Santa Monica are currently looking into the death of Presley Gerber, the son of renowned supermodel Cindy Crawford, as a case of suspected overdose. The 27-year-old model was found deceased at a rehabilitation facility on Sunday, as documented by records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
While the precise cause of his death remains undetermined, investigators have stated that there are no signs of foul play. A family representative, Allie Jenkins, communicated to CBS News on behalf of Crawford and her husband, Rande Gerber, requesting privacy for the family during this extremely challenging period.
Presley Gerber’s Background and Career
Presley followed in the footsteps of his famous mother and younger sister, Kaia, by pursuing a career in modeling. He made his debut at just 16 years old for the Italian fashion house Moschino, later showcasing for prestigious brands such as Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, and Bottega Veneta.
His father, Rande Gerber, is a prominent businessman, well-known for co-founding the Casamigos tequila brand alongside actor George Clooney. In recent years, Presley has been candid about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse.
Public Discussion of Mental Health Issues
In a 2023 interview on the Studio 22 podcast, Presley expressed, “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.” This sentiment reflects a growing dialogue about mental health challenges in the public sphere.
Furthermore, in a recent issue of American Vogue, Kaia Gerber, his sister, openly addressed their family’s experiences with addiction, stating, “When something like that happens in a family, it kind of levels everyone.” She elaborated on the complications of family dynamics and the need for openness regarding struggles with addiction, saying, “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.”
Family Bonds and Remembrances
Presley was known for his close-knit relationships with his family members, especially with Kaia, with whom he collaborated on a Calvin Klein campaign in 2018. He even has her name tattooed on his arm, signifying their bond. In a conversation with People Magazine that year, he remarked, “We’re a close family, especially me and my sister, so it’s definitely cool. We get to travel together half of the time, so it makes it a lot less lonely.”
Additionally, Presley starred alongside Cindy in a Pepsi commercial aired during the 2018 Super Bowl, a nod to the iconic 1992 ad featuring Crawford. Reflecting on this experience, he shared with People Magazine, “We’re a really tight family, so it was just like going to work with one of your friends. It was so fun and easy.”
In July, to celebrate his 27th birthday, Cindy Crawford shared nostalgic photographs of Presley on Instagram, expressing her pride in his growth while also affectionately referring to him as her “little boy.” “I’m so proud of the man you’ve become, but I’ll always see you as my little boy! Love you,” she wrote.
For those facing distress or despair, resources for support and assistance can be found through BBC Action Line.
