The 2026 Met Gala, sponsored by Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez, sparked controversy over its entertainment choices and high-profile absences. The event, themed 'Costume Art,' featured a performance of Whitney Houston's 'I Wanna Dance with Somebody' that drew criticism for its 'cruise ship-style' vibe. Meanwhile, stars like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber attended afterparties, while others, including Meryl Streep and Zendaya, skipped the event due to Bezos' involvement.
Core Facts
The Met Gala, chaired by Anna Wintour, Nicole Kidman, and Venus Williams, opened with a performance that fans mocked as 'tacky' and 'embarrassing.' Lauren Sanchez, co-chair, was criticized for her dancing, which some called 'awkward' and 'cringe.' The event also faced backlash over its $75,000-per-ticket price and Bezos' sponsorship, which some saw as a conflict with the gala's artistic mission.
Deeper Dive & Context
Entertainment and Reception
The opening performance by Joshua Henry and a choir was met with mixed reactions. While some attendees enjoyed the rendition of 'I Wanna Dance with Somebody,' social media users mocked the event's tone, comparing it to 'carnival cruise lines.' Sanchez's dancing, in particular, became a focal point of criticism, with videos of her moving awkwardly alongside Kidman and Wintour going viral.
High-Profile Absences
Several A-list celebrities, including Meryl Streep and Zendaya, reportedly skipped the gala due to Bezos' sponsorship. Morgan Spector, who has publicly criticized billionaires, attended with his wife, Rebecca Hall, raising questions about hypocrisy among attendees.
Fashion and Afterparties
Despite the controversy, the Met Gala remained a hub for fashion statements. Kendall Jenner embraced the 'fake nipple' trend with a corset-topped dress, while Hailey Bieber switched into a white minidress for afterparties. Other stars, like Katy Perry and Sabrina Carpenter, also attended post-gala events, showcasing diverse styles.
Pre-Gala Parties
Before the main event, Bezos and Sanchez hosted a pre-party at their NoMad apartment, attended by stars like Brooks Nader and Lisa Rinna. Nicole Kidman, dressed in a business-meeting-inspired outfit, also made an appearance. The following day, Sanchez, Sabrina Carpenter, and Serena Williams attended Wintour's pre-Met Gala party.