The Met Gala red carpet is officially underway for fashion's biggest night at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This annual haute couture fundraising gala benefits the Met's Costume Institute and draws the world's biggest stars, including Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Kim Kardashian, Lady Gaga, and Rihanna.
This Year's Theme and Co-Chairs
The theme for 2025 is Fashion is Art, co-chaired by a superstar panel featuring Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and former Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos, 62, and his wife Lauren Sanchez, 56, serve as lead sponsors and honorary chairs, a move that has sparked significant backlash across New York City.
Protests and Controversy
Hours before the red carpet opened, protesters escalated their demonstrations against Bezos's involvement. Hundreds of containers filled with yellow liquid, believed to be urine, were reportedly hidden throughout the Metropolitan Museum of Art near priceless artifacts. Baskets of plastic water bottles were also placed outside the museum with a sign reading: 'The Met Gala VIP toilet. Installed in honor of Met Gala chair Jeff Bezos. Go ahead, it's good enough for his staff.' The stunt aimed to highlight Amazon's treatment of its workers.
Beyoncé Album Speculation
Meanwhile, Beyoncé fans are convinced the singer will unveil a new rock album at the gala, possibly as a tribute to Prince. The 44-year-old has long been rumored to be releasing a rock-inspired album as Act III of her trilogy, following Renaissance (dance) and Cowboy Carter (country). Teasing Instagram snaps showing her in a dramatic purple gown have fueled speculation of a nod to Prince's Purple Rain.
Insider Drama
Met Gala insiders have leaked details of 'disturbing' drama surrounding the first event bankrolled by Bezos and Sanchez. Traditionally, the guest list was tightly controlled by Anna Wintour, but this year's sponsorship has shifted focus. An A-lister reportedly backed out, and Wintour's role has changed. With tickets starting at $100,000 per person, all eyes are on the Met steps to see which celebrities attend and make a statement.
