Paris Hilton has built her personal brand by focusing on 'The Simple Life' and 11:11 Media

Paris Hilton, who became widely recognized after starring in the 2003 reality series The Simple Life, has evolved into a serial entrepreneur and the CEO of international media brand 11:11 Media. Hilton has successfully turned her personal image into a thriving business by emphasizing two core principles: authenticity and kindness.

"For years, people had a perception of me that didnt match who I truly am," Hilton told CNBC. "Early in my career, I embraced the persona from The Simple Life, but behind the scenes, I was fully dedicated to building my own brand."

She believes the key to overcoming skepticism is demonstrating genuine work and maintaining authenticity. "The best way to rise above being underestimated is to let your work speak and to consistently show up as yourself," Hilton explained.

Hilton also insists that authenticity and kindness are central to her company culture. She specifically looks for employees who are creative, passionate, and authentic. "Kindness is non-negotiable for me. It reflects true character, and I want everyone representing my brand to lead with it," she said.

At the 2025 Changemakers Summit, Hilton shared her vision for 11:11 Media, aiming to build it into a major entertainment ecosystem similar to Disney. "I see 11:11 Media as a hub combining commerce and community, spanning television, video, audio, products, and even the metaverse," she said.

This initiative marks a shift from Hilton's previous focus on products, endorsements, and her DJ career. Despite branching into media, she remains confident in attracting consumer support. "Everything I do aligns with who I am and reflects my brand authentically," she stated.

Beyond business, Hilton is committed to making a positive societal impact. She has highlighted causes such as child welfare, juvenile justice, and education reform. In 2024, she testified before Congress in support of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act, which became law later that year.

"Impact should be integrated into your mission from the start," Hilton emphasized, noting that her second hire at 11:11 Media was focused on impact initiatives. She encourages young entrepreneurs to thoughtfully engage with the communities they serve and use their platforms to inspire meaningful change.

Through 11:11 Media, Hilton continues to blend her personal brand with purposeful business strategy, proving that authenticity and compassion can drive both success and societal influence.

Author: Sophia Brooks