Katy Perry files for restraining order against homeless stalker who wielded aerosol and lighter outside her Santa Barbara mansion, seeking protection for herself and Orlando Bloom amid their relationship breakdown.
Key Takeaways
- Perry has secured a restraining order against Ross Elliott Hedrick, 43, who has been repeatedly seen displaying concerning behavior near her Santa Barbara home.
- The legal action followed incidents that began on June 18, 2025, including one where Hedrick wielded an aerosol can and lighter, posing potential danger.
- Despite having Bloom included in the protection order, reports indicate their relationship had been deteriorating for months before a final split.
- Perry continues her “Lifetimes Tour” amid criticism of her recent album, performances, and brief spaceflight, while dismissing critics as “unhinged and unhealed.”
- This isn’t Perry’s first encounter with stalkers, as she previously dealt with similar situations in 2017 and 2020, highlighting ongoing security concerns for celebrities.
Stalker Incidents Prompt Legal Action
Pop star Katy Perry has filed for a restraining order against a 43-year-old homeless man named Ross Elliott Hedrick after multiple concerning incidents at her Santa Barbara mansion. Court documents reveal that Hedrick first appeared at Perry’s residence on June 18, 2025, carrying an aerosol can and lighter in what security personnel interpreted as a potentially dangerous situation. Despite being arrested after this initial encounter, Hedrick returned a week later and was observed throwing a blanket over the property’s gate, escalating Perry’s safety concerns.
The singer has requested that Hedrick remain at least 100 yards away from her home, vehicles, and any locations she frequents. The protection order also extends to her former partner Orlando Bloom, despite reports of their recent separation. Santa Barbara authorities are expected to review the restraining order request imminently, with potential legal consequences for violations. The affluent area, home to numerous celebrities, has dealt with similar security concerns in the past.
History of Stalking Incidents
This isn’t Perry’s first experience with obsessive fans. In 2017, she dealt with Pawel Jurski, who followed her across multiple cities and countries during her Witness World Tour. At his arraignment, Jurski made his disturbing intentions clear: “I will do whatever it takes to be with Katy Perry,” Jurski stated, according to court documents.
Additionally, in 2020, Perry filed for another restraining order against a man identified only as William, who trespassed on her property and allegedly made violent threats. These recurring incidents highlight the persistent security challenges faced by high-profile celebrities, especially those with established residences known to the public. Perry’s security team believes Hedrick poses a continued threat despite not having made direct verbal threats, citing his erratic behavior and persistence in returning to the property after initial police intervention.
Relationship Troubles and Career Challenges
The stalking incidents come at a particularly challenging time for Perry, who is dealing with the end of her relationship with Orlando Bloom. The couple, who became engaged in 2019 and share a daughter named Daisy, reportedly split after growing apart over recent months. Sources close to the situation have revealed the gradual nature of their separation: “It was just one little thing after another. After the holidays and into the New Year, it became easier to live their individual lives instead of a life together,” according to sources familiar with the situation.
“Katy and Orlando have been suffering through the same problems that have plagued them for years,” a source explained, adding that they had “too much going on in their lives, which makes it hard to find time for each other and iron out disagreements. When they don’t communicate properly, their relationship dips to a low level.”
Public Criticism and Perry’s Response
Amidst her challenges, Perry faces mounting criticism of her professional endeavors. Her latest album and ongoing “Lifetimes Tour” have received mixed reactions, with some fans expressing disappointment in her onstage performances. The singer also faced mockery after participating in Blue Origin’s first all-female space crew, with critics diminishing the significance of the 11-minute spaceflight experience. Despite the negativity surrounding both her personal and professional life, Perry remains defiant.
When addressing her critics, Perry didn’t mince words, describing them as “unhinged and unhealed.”
Meanwhile, fans continue to show support for Perry during this difficult period. “Katy deserves peace,” many have commented on social media, with others expressing concern for both her and her daughter: “Wishing safety for her and Daisy.” As Perry continues her international tour with enhanced security measures, the restraining order represents just one aspect of her attempt to maintain stability during a tumultuous personal and professional period.
