Presley Gerber, son of Cindy Crawford, passes away at 27 amid mental health battle

Presley Gerber, the son of iconic supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, has died at the age of 27. The news was confirmed by a representative for Cindy Crawford, who conveyed a statement from the family requesting privacy during this profoundly difficult and painful period. Gerber’s passing occurred on Sunday at a rehabilitation facility, according to records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, though details regarding the cause remain undisclosed as an autopsy has not yet been finalized.

Family seeks privacy as initial details emerge

The sudden death of Presley Gerber has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and beyond, prompting an outpouring of condolences. The family’s brief statement underscores the gravity of the situation, appealing for respect and space as they navigate their grief. This request highlights the challenging circumstances surrounding his untimely demise, emphasizing the personal nature of their loss.

Official records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office indicate that Gerber died while at a rehabilitation center. This detail offers a glimpse into the context of his final days, suggesting a continued effort to address personal struggles. The pending autopsy means that a definitive cause of death is yet to be determined, leaving many questions unanswered for now as the investigation proceeds.

Gerber’s public battle with mental health and addiction

Presley Gerber had been remarkably open about his struggles with mental health and substance use, frequently sharing his journey on social media platforms and in various interviews. His candor provided a window into the challenges he faced, aiming to connect with others experiencing similar difficulties. This vulnerability offered a stark contrast to the often-polished image associated with celebrity families, revealing a more human and relatable side.

His sister, model and actress Kaia Gerber, also spoke candidly about her brother’s mental health and drug use in a Vogue cover story published in August 2026. The magazine characterized Presley’s experience as a “decade-long struggle with drug addiction,” painting a picture of persistent challenges. This long-term battle underscores the profound impact such issues can have on individuals and their families, highlighting the continuous effort required for recovery.

In December 2025, Presley shared an Instagram video, which was later removed, where he discussed taking medications such as Xanax, Valium, and buprenorphine. During this video, he openly addressed his panic attacks and ongoing recovery process, explaining his motivations for sharing:

• To help others feel less isolated, as he often felt alone in his struggles.
• To connect with individuals who might offer support or know someone who could provide assistance.

Gerber further elaborated on his experiences during a Studio 22 podcast appearance in February 2023. He expressed a deep-seated desire to assist others by leveraging his own journey, stating, “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.” His words reflected a commitment to transforming his personal pain into a source of support for others.

Kaia Gerber on the family’s journey and her brother’s openness

Kaia Gerber, 24, provided a poignant perspective on how her brother’s struggles impacted their family dynamic. She noted that such events tend to “level everyone,” creating a shared experience of vulnerability and concern. This observation sheds light on the ripple effect of mental health and addiction challenges within a close-knit family unit, affecting each member in unique ways.

Kaia revealed that she often identified herself as “the easy one” and hesitated to ask for help, feeling it would be “too much to have two children who were needing.” This sentiment illustrates the pressure she felt to maintain a strong facade, particularly when her brother was grappling with significant issues. Her parents, known for their privacy, also had to adapt to Presley’s openness.

She emphasized that Presley became an “absolute teacher” for the family by choosing to be “very human for everyone” on social media. Kaia highlighted the futility of hiding such struggles, explaining, “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.” Her insights underscore the importance of authenticity and acceptance in dealing with complex family challenges.

A career in modeling and a past legal incident

Presley Gerber embarked on a promising career in the fashion industry at a young age, signing with IMG Models when he was just 15. His lineage, combined with his striking looks, quickly propelled him into the spotlight. He graced the runways for numerous prestigious designer houses, making his debut at Moschino’s show in Los Angeles in 2016. His presence on the catwalk was often highlighted by his distinctive tattoos and edgy style.

Beyond the runway, Gerber also featured in significant campaigns, notably for Calvin Klein, and appeared in a fragrance advertisement for Celine. His portfolio included work with other prominent brands such as Dolce & Gabbana and Tommy Hilfiger, solidifying his status as a recognizable figure in high fashion. Despite his professional achievements, Gerber also faced personal challenges, including a DUI charge in 2019, which brought public attention to his struggles outside of his modeling career.