Perez gives Fabulous’ Laura all the goss
Where Soho, London
Afternoon, Perez, or should we say Mario Armando Lavandeira?
The name Perez Hilton came about when I was celebrating New Year’s Eve in Miami in December 2004. Clubs had reserved signs on their tables with Paris Hilton’s name on but she never turned up. I was like: “Purlease, Paris Hilton isn’t showing up – maybe Perez Hilton!” And that’s when I had a light bulb moment.
Getting his swagger on with Cher Lloyd
When did your blog really take off?
In spring 2005 a friend passed me photos of Brad and Angelina as a couple for the first time. I posted them and my website crashed!
Wow, a world exclusive! How does it feel to be a celebrity yourself now?
I think it’s so funny that I’ve been able to trick the world! I’m just so grateful that I get to do something I love.
Who’s your fave celeb?
Madonna. She’s been the fabric of my life. I can’t think of a world without her.
That’s a lot of love! You have some left for Cher Lloyd too, don’t you?
I do! I’ve loved her from her first X Factor audition because she felt different. To use her word, she’s brought “swagger” to pop music.
Did she give you any goss about her relationship with Cheryl Cole?
I asked a while ago, but she claimed there was no feud. I don’t think they’re pals, but there’s no ill will.
Hmm. Are there any celebs you’re not so keen on?
Pete Doherty, but he’s kind of faded away. I’m not a fan of glamorising bad behaviour. Like Lindsay Lohan – I just want her to snap out of it.
You recently starred with her in Glee. How was that?
Difficult. The reports about her are true. She was late and difficult to work with. She gets so many chances. It’s almost not deserved.
How do you feel about Lily Allen now (Perez once said: “Lily Allen + motherhood = disaster”, and she called him a “Woman-hating retard”. Nice.)?
Despite past differences, I’ve always been a champion of her music. I really think she’s a great artist.
Why did you fall out?
I was a different person then, I was nastier. I’ve since become mindful of the energy and words I’m putting out there.
Riiight. What’s your biggest regret?
Hurting people. I was just trying to entertain everyone. But now I realise I can be fun, sassy and critical, but I can do it in a way that’s not mean.
Is there anyone you wish you hadn’t said something about?
Lots! I nicknamed everyone. Jennifer Aniston was Maniston and Rumer Willis was Potato Head.
Have you ever said something mean and then met the person afterwards?
When I met Jesse Metcalfe he said he’d fantasised about killing me. You don’t want somebody saying that, do you?
Er, no. What would be your dream celeb story to blog about?
My wedding to Zac Efron, he’s dreamy!
We won’t buy a hat just yet…
● Ticket sales from Perez’s One Night In London party in July have been donated to The Brit Trust.
The damage
Bottles of water drunk 3
Times Perez dazzled us with his pearly white teeth Countless
US radio shows Perez had to call during our interview 2
