It is the night where fashion, fame and fantasy collide beneath the glittering ceilings of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, but this year, the Met Gala is facing an unexpected storm.
Several of Hollywood’s most recognisable names are reportedly choosing to stay away from the iconic event, amid mounting criticism over its high-profile sponsorship by Jeff Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sanchez Bezos.
The couple, who tied the knot in a lavish Venice ceremony earlier this year, are said to have contributed an eight-figure sum to co-host and sponsor the gala, securing positions as honorary co-chairs.
© Getty Images for The Met Museum/Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez attend The 2024 Met Gala
While their involvement has been welcomed by organisers, it has also sparked unease among some in the industry, with critics accusing them of effectively “buying” their place at fashion’s most exclusive table.
Among the most notable absentees is Meryl Streep, whose decision not to attend has raised eyebrows across both Hollywood and the fashion world. Her absence feels particularly pointed given the timing, the gala falls just days after the release of The Devil Wears Prada 2, in which she reprises her role as the formidable Miranda Priestly, widely believed to be inspired by long-time Met Gala overseer Anna Wintour.
© Getty Images for 20th Century StAnna Wintour and Meryl Streep attend the world premiere of The Devil Wears Prada 2
Despite her close association with the film and a recent promotional tour alongside Anna, Meryl has reportedly declined to attend. While a representative noted that the Oscar-winning actress has “never quite found it her scene,” reports suggest her decision may also reflect discomfort with Jeff’s involvement. Amy Odell, Anna’s biographer, has hinted that Meryl, a vocal political figure, may have quietly opted out in protest.
“Meryl has been invited to the Met Gala for many years but has never attended,” a representative for the actress stated. “While she appreciates Vogue, Anna, and her incredible imagination and stamina, it has never quite been her scene.”
© Getty Images for The Met Museum/Zendaya attends the 2025 Met Gala
Her daughters, Grace and Mamie Gummer, are still expected to attend, as are her co-stars Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci.
Also missing from this year’s guest list is Zendaya, a Met Gala mainstay who has dazzled on the red carpet for seven consecutive years. According to reports, the actress has chosen to skip the evening following an intense period of work promoting upcoming projects, including The Drama and the next season of Euphoria.
Meanwhile, speculation continues to swirl around Lady Gaga, whose attendance has yet to be confirmed. The pop icon, known for delivering some of the Met Gala’s most unforgettable moments, may also be among those quietly stepping back this year.
© Getty ImagesLady Gaga attends The 2019 Met Gala
Despite the growing chatter, Anna Wintour has sought to temper the controversy, publicly praising Lauren Sanchez Bezos and her contribution to the event.
“I think Lauren is going to be a wonderful asset to the museum and to the event,” she said in a previous interview. “I’m very grateful for her incredible generosity… we’re thrilled she’s part of the night.”