setting the record straight

Paris Hilton responds to backlash over kids’ Halloween costumes


Halloween costumes sparked an unexpected parenting debate on social media


© Getty Images
Shirley GomezSenior Writer
OCTOBER 29, 2026 4:40 PM EDT

Paris Hilton is setting the record straight after her family's adorable Halloween costumes sparked an unexpected parenting debate on social media.

The 45-year-old reality star, entrepreneur, and mother of two recently shared a series of elaborate Beauty and the Beast-inspired Halloween photos featuring her husband, Carter Reum, and their children, Phoenix, 3, and London, 2.

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What was supposed to be a magical family moment quickly turned into controversy when some social media users questioned why Hilton dressed as Disney princess Belle while her young daughter portrayed Chip, the lovable teacup.

Critics accused the former Simple Life star of making herself the center of attention instead of allowing her children to take the leading roles.

However, Hilton had a simple explanation for the costume choices, and it turns out little London had a say in the family's Disney transformation. 

Why Paris Hilton's Family Halloween Costumes Sparked Backlash

Hilton went all out for Halloween 2026, transforming her family into characters from Disney's beloved 1991 animated film Beauty and the Beast. The mother of two stepped into Belle's iconic yellow ballgown, complete with a brunette wig, elegant gloves, and romantic rose embellishments.

Her husband, Carter Reum, embraced the role of the Beast, wearing a furry mask, oversized paws, and a costume inspired by the film's enchanted prince.

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Their son Phoenix dressed as Lumière, the charismatic candelabra, while daughter London wore a colorful outfit inspired by Chip, the adorable teacup and son of Mrs. Potts. Hilton shared the family portraits on Instagram ahead of Halloween, writing: "My life is a fairytale, and the magic never ends."

Although the coordinated costumes showcased the family's playful side, not everyone appreciated how the characters were assigned. Some critics argued that London should have been Belle, suggesting Hilton had chosen the princess role for herself at her daughter's expense.

Others mistakenly believed London was dressed as Mrs. Potts, rather than Chip, adding confusion to the online conversation. 

Paris Hilton Explains Why Daughter London Dressed as Chip

As the criticism gained attention, Hilton responded directly to the controversy in the comments section of an Instagram Reel discussing the costumes.

Hilton explained that the Disney movie is a family favorite and that her daughter specifically requested her character: "Beauty and the Beast is one of their favorite movies."

Paris Hilton her son Phoenix Hilton-Reum and daughter London Hilton-Reum © GC Images
Paris Hilton her son Phoenix Hilton-Reum and daughter London Hilton-Reum

Hilton continued: "London said she wanted to dress up as Chip. She said it was her favorite character in the movie."

Paris Hilton's Halloween 2026 Looks Also Include Britney Spears

The Beauty and the Beast family photo shoot isn't Hilton's only headline-making Halloween moment this year.

Earlier in October, the star paid tribute to her longtime friend Britney Spears by recreating the singer's memorable look from her 2001 MTV Video Music Awards performance of "I'm a Slave 4 U."

Hilton recreated the rhinestone-covered outfit, complete with a snake accessory inspired by Spears' unforgettable stage appearance. She captioned one of her Halloween posts: "Oops… I #Slayed it again."