Every year, the Met Gala brings together celebrities, designers, and media worldwide. Known as the biggest night in fashion, this New York event is all about stunning outfits and glamorous photos. Apart from fashion, the Met Gala has become equally famous for its unexpected and bold controversies.
Some moments shocked fans, some broke rules, and some left people talking for years. Look at 10 of the most unforgettable scandals that rocked the Met Gala red carpet.
1. Jay-Z vs Solange: The Lift Fight That Broke the Internet
In 2014, after the Met Gala ended, Beyoncé, her husband Jay-Z, and her sister Solange got into a lift to attend an after-party. What happened next became one of the most shocking celebrity moments ever. A CCTV video leaked online showed Solange physically attacking Jay-Z in the elevator while Beyoncé stood silently.
The internet was filled with memes, theories, and discussions. Although the family later said they had resolved the matter, rumors spread that Solange was angry over Jay-Z’s alleged cheating. This incident became more famous than the fashion on that night.
2. Bathroom Turns into Smoking Zone
The Met Gala rules are strict, especially the one that says, “No smoking inside.” However, in 2017, several stars broke this rule. Celebs like Bella Hadid, Dakota Johnson, and Paris Jackson were seen smoking cigarettes in the bathroom. Some even clicked selfies and shared them online.
This act angered Met Gala organizer Anna Wintour and city health officials. They warned celebs not to glamorize smoking, especially in a public building where it’s legally banned.
3. Madonna’s Bold Outfit Sparks Debate
In 2016, singer Madonna walked the red carpet in a black outfit that left little to the imagination. Her dress had sheer panels that made her back and chest visible. While some fans praised her confidence, others called the outfit vulgar.
Madonna responded strongly, saying she wore it to show that women, regardless of age, have the freedom to dress however they want. She said it was her way of sending a message about body freedom and women’s rights.
4. Lea Dunham’s Awkward Moment with a Footballer
During the 2016 Met Gala, actress Lena Dunham sat next to American footballer Odell Beckham Jr. Later, she claimed that he ignored her because she didn’t “fit” his standard of beauty. This statement caused considerable debate on social media.
Many called out Lena for assuming Odell’s thoughts without any proof. Later, she apologized, and Odell responded politely, clearing the air.
5. Rihanna’s After-Party Drama
Rihanna is known for hosting the most exclusive Met Gala after-parties. But in 2017, something odd happened. Actor Eddie Redmayne and his wife were reportedly denied entry by security guards—not once, but twice.
Though reports said the place was too crowded, gossip started that Rihanna might have kept them off the guest list. Whether that was true or not, the couple’s rejection became a big topic after the event.
6. Naked Artist Creates Chaos
The 2017 Met Gala saw a shocking protest. Russian artist Fyodor Pavlov-Andreevich arrived completely naked and locked himself in a glass box right on the red carpet. His team placed the box in front of media cameras before police arrested him for public nudity.
His action confused and shocked many, and no one understood his message. But it added yet another bizarre memory to the Met Gala’s history.
7. Demi Lovato Walks Out Mid-Event
Singer Demi Lovato did not enjoy her Met Gala experience in 2016. She said she felt very uncomfortable and isolated. In an interview, she shared that the celebrity environment made her feel judged and unwanted. She even left the event early and attended an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting instead.
Lovato said the event pushed her closer to mental health struggles and that she would never attend the Met Gala again.
8. Outfit Controversy Around Cultural Themes
The 2015 Met Gala had a theme called “China: Through the Looking Glass.” While it celebrated Chinese art and culture, many celebrities wore outfits that sparked outrage. Some accused them of promoting racial stereotypes.
Sarah Jessica Parker’s dragon-themed headgear and Lady Gaga’s Japanese-inspired dress were criticized. Critics said the celebrities should have shown more respect for cultural sensitivity.
9. Selfies Get Banned After Red Carpet Chaos
In 2014, many celebs took selfies inside the Met Gala despite rules asking them not to. Anna Wintour banned mobile phones and selfies at the event the following year. She felt that people were getting drunk, posting private moments, and ruining the elegant vibe of the event.
This strict step made the Met Gala a rare place without social media updates in real time, which is very unusual for today’s celebrity world.
10. Donald Trump on the ‘Never Invite’ List
In an interview, Anna Wintour confirmed that there’s only one person she would never invite to the Met Gala—Donald Trump. Though she didn’t share the reason, many believe it concerns his controversial political image and past disagreements with media and celebs.
This statement made news and showed how selective and potent the Met Gala invitation list truly is.
Sources: TV9 Hindi, CBS Sunday Morning, Throwbacksgaga, Louwapelumi
