Megyn Kelly is facing widespread criticism after making comments about Cindy Crawford and her family shortly after the death of Crawford’s son, Presley Gerber.
Presley, a 27-year-old model and the son of Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, died on September 20, 2026, at a rehabilitation facility in California. His family has asked the public to respect their privacy during what they described as an extremely painful time. The official cause and manner of death have not yet been finalized, although police are investigating the death as a suspected overdose.
Following the news, Kelly discussed Presley’s life and his struggles with addiction and mental health on The Megyn Kelly Show.
During the discussion, Kelly questioned decisions made by Presley’s parents and focused particularly on his experience entering the modeling industry as a teenager. Presley began modeling at a young age, and Kelly argued that children who enter highly public industries can face pressures and environments that may be difficult to navigate.
She also referred to a face tattoo Presley received at 21. Kelly said that when a young person chooses to tattoo the word “misunderstood” on their face, it can indicate that there are serious problems within a family.
Those remarks quickly generated criticism online.
Several people argued that discussing a grieving family’s parenting choices immediately following the death of their child was inappropriate. Television personality Spencer Pratt was among those who publicly criticized Kelly’s comments, while other social-media users accused her of placing responsibility on Crawford and Rande Gerber without knowing the family’s private circumstances.
Kelly’s comments, however, were presented as her own opinion and as part of a broader discussion about young people, celebrity culture, modeling and addiction. They should not be treated as evidence that Crawford or Gerber caused their son’s struggles.
Presley had previously spoken publicly about mental health and addiction, making those subjects part of his public story. His sister, Kaia Gerber, had also discussed how his struggles affected their family.
For now, the family has asked for privacy as authorities continue examining the circumstances surrounding Presley’s death.
The controversy surrounding Kelly’s comments has added another layer to an already painful story, but the facts surrounding Presley’s death remain under investigation.
Whatever opinions people may have about celebrity parenting or the pressures of growing up in the public eye, the Gerber family is now dealing with the loss of a son and brother at just 27 years old.
The situation continues to develop, and further official information may clarify the circumstances surrounding his death.